A’Ibom CP seeks collaboration to fight sea piracy

The Commissioner of Police for Akwa Ibom State, Baba Azare, has called for strengthened inter-agency collaboration to tackle escalating maritime security threats, particularly sea piracy, along Nigeria's coast. Azare made this appeal in Uyo while hosting the Commandant of the Naval Warfare College Nigeria, Rear Admiral M.A. Muye, and participants of Naval Warfare Course 10 during their operational study visit.

The visit's theme, "Maritime Security and Socio-Economic Development: Akwa Ibom State in Perspective," aims to expose senior military officers to current security challenges and the connection between maritime safety and national economic growth. Commissioner Azare stressed that effectively combating maritime crime requires a unified, multi-agency approach. This includes collaboration between the Nigerian Navy, Nigeria Police Force, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps, Department of State Services, Nigeria Customs Service, Nigeria Immigration Service, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, and relevant community stakeholders.

Azare noted that maritime crimes are growing more sophisticated, necessitating enhanced intelligence sharing, joint operations, improved surveillance, and the deployment of modern technology. He also pointed to the need for better protection of oil and gas infrastructure and sustained capacity building for security personnel. The Commissioner underscored Akwa Ibom State's strategic position within Nigeria's maritime corridor, recognizing its role as a key driver of economic development, while acknowledging the persistent threats of sea piracy, armed robbery, and kidnapping.

He asserted that maritime security is fundamental to sustainable socio-economic development, stating that a nation cannot fully exploit its maritime resources amidst insecurity. In response, Rear Admiral Muye praised the Akwa Ibom State Police Command for its operational effectiveness and contributions to the state's peace and stability. Muye added that the insights gained from the visit would significantly benefit the academic and operational experiences of the Naval Warfare Course 10 participants in addressing emerging maritime security issues.

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Maritime crimes are becoming more sophisticated every day, and this requires stronger intelligence sharing, joint operations, improved surveillance capabilities, deployment of modern technology, enhanced protection of oil and gas installations, and sustained capacity building for security personnel