Chief of Naval Staff (CNS) Emmanuel Ogalla says the force would establish a special operations command unit along the banks of River Benue.

Mr Ogalla disclosed this when he visited Governor Hyacinth Alia at the Old Banquet Hall, Government House, Makurdi, on Tuesday.

He said the federal government has approved the establishment of a special operations command unit along the banks of River Benue.

The CNS revealed that while in the state, he would inspect the site, adding that the operational planning was underway.

“This aligns with our Total Spectrum Maritime Strategy, which extends our responsibilities beyond coastal waters to inland waterways and land-based support,” he said.

He reaffirmed their commitment to tackling insecurity in Benhe through strategic collaboration and development-focused security operations.

Mr Ogalla lauded Mr Alia’s proactive governance, especially in providing an enabling environment for economic growth and allocating land for the naval project.

The naval boss also called for sustained cooperation among all security agencies and community leaders, stating that the navy’s deployment in Benue would now move beyond training to full operational capacity.

He expressed deep condolences over recent violent attacks that claimed lives across parts of the state.

“There can be no security without development, and no development without security,” he stated.

In his remarks, Mr Alia emphasised that the threat to lives and farmlands was a national crisis with direct implications for food security, particularly in a state known as Nigeria’s food basket.

“The waterways of Benue, vast and currently unmonitored, have become corridors for attackers. This naval presence is not only necessary but urgent,” he said.

He thanked the CNS for swiftly responding to the state’s distress call and granting the request for a special unit command, pledging full logistical support to fast-track its activation.

The governor also assured the navy of continued partnership, including efforts to improve site accessibility and further collaboration on long-term peacebuilding.

(NAN)