By Tola Gbadamosi

As part of efforts to enhance security and protect the state’s vital oil infrastructure, the Nigerian Navy has commissioned a new Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Igbokoda, Ondo State.

The Flag Officer Commanding (FOC), Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral M.B. Hassan, during the commissioning ceremony, said the base was strategically located to tackle oil theft and other criminal activities in the Niger Delta region.

According to the FOC, the establishment of the base was necessary due to its proximity to oil fields in Ondo State, adding that the move would help curtail illegal operations in the area.

“The new base is set up primarily to fight criminal activities, including crude oil theft, in the region.

“For years, criminals have exploited these areas as safe havens after stealing oil, necessitating our presence to bring such activities to a halt,” he said.

The FOC noted that, with the base now operational, the Navy would intensify efforts to combat illicit activities along critical oil corridors, thereby securing the nation’s oil wealth.

He further commended the Commanding Officer of FOB Igbokoda, Captain M.W. Alushe, for his leadership in ensuring successful operations since his appointment in October 2023.

Under Captain Alushe’s command, notable achievements have been recorded, including the arrest of “MT Vanilia“ in Lagos last year, a major breakthrough in the fight against illegal oil bunkering.

Additionally, the base has undergone significant infrastructural upgrades, including the expansion of the Sick Bay from a 2-bed to an 8-bed ward with modern facilities, barracks renovations, school improvements, and the construction of security observation posts.

The FOC also lauded the base for maintaining a high level of professionalism, stating that the infrastructural upgrades symbolised the collective commitment to enhancing security in the region.

In attendance at the event were traditional rulers, members of the Ondo State Security Network Agency (Amotekun), and heads of other security agencies, who pledged continued collaboration with the Nigerian Navy to maintain security in the state.

The event concluded with the commissioning of a new gate complex at the base, a step the FOC said would further strengthen the Navy’s capacity to tackle security challenges in the region.

He expressed gratitude to stakeholders for their support and urged continued cooperation to safeguard Nigeria’s economic interests and critical infrastructure.