By Doris Ferdinand
The Chief of Naval Staff, Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas has on Friday solicited for adequate funding for the Nigeria Navy for the smooth running of naval activities.
The naval chief disclosed this when he appeared before the House of Representatives Committee on Navy 2021 budget defence. He stressed that additional operating vessels are required to enhance the Navy’s presence in defence of Nigeria maritime interest and sustain the on going effort against maritime related crime.
Some of the challenges highlited by the Navy Chief are inadequate jetting, consolidate logistic support facility, shortage of personnel cost for maintaining seized and arrested vessels, shortage of barracks accommodation and inadequate funding.
He also noted that any expenditure on Nigeria Navy is an investment to the nation’s economy. “It needs to be stressed that any expenditure on our Navy is an investment to enhance the nation’s economy and national development.
“Our Navy shall therefore be adequately funded to secure nigerian’s maritime empowerment for sustainable development. In this regard, the Nigeria Navy is highly expectant of the understanding and support of this committee to help sustain Nigerian navy priority projects going forward.”
The chairman of the committee, Hon. Yusuf Gagdi-Babayo (APC, Plateau) in his submission affirmed that the members will carefully and thoroughly look into their budget proposal. “We had very informative and indeed very productive interaction this morning and it is our hope that as we move forward in deliberating your budget proposal for 2021, we will find those areas that requires proper and careful attention.
“We are motivated to look at your proposals thoroughly.” He said.
