Edo State Government, through the State’s Oil and Gas Producing Areas Development Commission (EDSOGPADEC) has procured additional four armoured gunboats and four speedboats to curb criminal activities along the state’s coastal areas and waterways.
The Chairman of EDSOGPADEC, Pastor Kennedy Osifo, who spoke to journalists, on behalf of other board members, immediately after inspecting the gun and speed boats, said the commission has now acquired eight gunboats and eight speed boats to strengthen security on its waterways and stop the activities of sea pirates.
He said the new armoured equipment will improve security in three oil and gas producing communities, including Ologbo in Ikpoba-Okha Local Government Area (LGA) and Gelegele, Ovia North East LGA of the state.
The commission’s chair further noted that the acquisition of the boats is part of efforts by the Governor Godwin Obaseki-led administration to create a business-friendly environment and attract more investment into the state, in line with the government’s vision to make Edo great again.
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Osifo revealed that the commission has completed the construction of a marine base at Ologbo River, as well as a modern jetty with a waiting lounge and other essential facilities for passengers and police officers in Ologbo Community in Ikpoba-Okha.
He added that “the gun and speed boats will be handed over to the Marine police command of the Nigerian Police Force to improve service delivery to the people of the communities and curtail the activities of sea pirates and other criminal elements on the waterways.”
Osifo hailed Obaseki for his commitment to ameliorating the plights of Edo people through EDSOGPADEC, reassuring of his relentless support at ensuring the realization of the governor’s Making Edo Great Again (MEGA) Agenda.
The EDSOGPADEC chair, who charged residents on protection of public facilities, said the commission will sustain efforts at improving the livelihoods of Edo people, which according to him, is a priority of the present administration of Governor Obaseki.
