The Nigerian Navy has officially taken over newly completed security facilities built by the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) in Ayakoro, Bayelsa State, as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen maritime security and support economic activities in the Niger Delta region.
The handover ceremony, held on Friday, October 24, 2025, marked another milestone in the collaboration between the NDDC and the Navy. Represented the Chief of Naval Staff, Rear Admiral Noel Madugu commended the initiative, described it as a model partnership that underscored the shared commitment to securing Nigeria’s maritime domain.
He noted that Ayakoro’s strategic position along the Nun River presented both vast economic opportunities and security challenges, including piracy and oil theft. Rear Admiral Madugu assured that the Nigerian Navy would fully deploy the new facilities to enhance operational effectiveness, protect critical infrastructure, and ensure the safety of lives and property in the area.
“These facilities will significantly improve our capacity to monitor and respond swiftly to security threats across the waterways. We urge residents to continue cooperating with the Navy through timely intelligence sharing,” Rear Admiral Madugu said.
In a related development, the Flag Officer Commanding also commissioned a series of newly completed projects at the Central Naval Command Headquarters, including a renovated Officers’ Mess, a modern gymnasium, and an upgraded conference room.
Rear Admiral Madugu lauded the Managing Director of the NDDC, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, for his vision and dedication to regional development, emphasizing that the Commission’s support is vital to improving the Navy’s logistics and operational readiness in the Niger Delta.
“Dr. Ogbuku and his team have demonstrated genuine commitment to the development and security of the region. We look forward to sustaining this productive partnership,” he added.
The NDDC’s intervention, according to observers, is expected to enhance the Nigerian Navy’s capacity to secure vital oil and gas assets, curb illegal activities, and foster an enabling environment for economic growth across coastal communities in Bayelsa and beyond.
