Governor Agbu Kefas has endorsed the proposed establishment of a Nigerian Navy Base in Kashimbila, saying the project will strengthen security across Taraba's waterways and border communities.
JALINGO, TARABA STATE — Taraba State has moved a step closer to hosting a Nigerian Navy Base following a high-level visit by a delegation from the Nigerian Navy Headquarters to assess the state for the proposed project, which is expected to strengthen security across the state's waterways and border communities.
Governor Agbu Kefas received the delegation on Tuesday at the Executive Council Chamber, TY Danjuma House, Jalingo, where he reaffirmed his administration's commitment to supporting the establishment of the naval facility.
Describing the proposal as a significant milestone for the state's security architecture, the governor said the presence of the Nigerian Navy would complement the operations of existing security agencies and enhance efforts to protect lives and property.
According to Kefas, Taraba's vast network of rivers and inland waterways makes the state strategically important for naval operations, particularly in tackling criminal activities and improving surveillance in remote areas.
He noted that strengthening security remains a priority of his administration and expressed confidence that a naval presence would further reinforce ongoing efforts to maintain peace and stability across the state.
> "The establishment of a Naval Base in Taraba will significantly enhance our security architecture and complement the efforts of other security agencies in safeguarding lives and property," the governor said.
Governor Kefas also urged the Nigerian Navy to maintain close collaboration with other security agencies operating in the state, stressing that coordinated operations remain essential in addressing emerging security threats.
He further appealed for training opportunities that would enable local personnel to develop skills capable of supporting security operations and strengthening community resilience.
The governor commended the Chief of the Naval Staff for fulfilling his commitment to Taraba State and for considering the state in the Navy's strategic expansion plans.
Earlier, the Chief of Administration, Nigerian Navy Headquarters, Rear Admiral Jonathan Nwunuji Mamman, said the delegation was undertaking a study tour to facilitate the proposed establishment of a Naval Base in Kashimbila, located in Takum Local Government Area.
He explained that Kashimbila was selected after preliminary assessments identified its strategic importance to national security.
According to the senior naval officer, the presence of the Kashimbila Dam, available airport infrastructure and the area's proximity to the Republic of Cameroon make the location suitable for naval operations and rapid deployment when necessary.
Rear Admiral Mamman disclosed that members of the delegation would proceed to Kashimbila to conduct an on-the-spot assessment of the proposed site before making further recommendations to the Naval Headquarters.
He also appealed to the Taraba State Government to continue providing the necessary support and cooperation required to facilitate the successful establishment of the base.
Boosting Border and Waterway Security
Security experts have long identified Taraba's extensive waterways and international border as strategic assets that require enhanced surveillance to combat trans-border crimes, illegal movements and other security threats.
The proposed Naval Base is expected to strengthen security around the Kashimbila axis, improve coordination with other security agencies and enhance protection for communities located near major waterways and border corridors.
If approved, the facility would also expand the operational footprint of the Nigerian Navy in the North-East and North Central regions while supporting broader national efforts to improve internal security.
For Taraba State, the project represents another significant investment in security infrastructure as the government continues to pursue initiatives aimed at creating a safer environment for residents and attracting economic development.
Prime Brief Media understands that the Nigerian Navy delegation will complete its technical assessment before submitting its findings for further consideration by the Naval Headquarters.
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