The Benue State Government has initiated a training program for newly formed Marine Marshals to address rising insecurity along its waterways. This move comes as a direct response to persistent attacks and criminal activities in riverine communities, often linked to armed herders and other syndicates using rivers for mobility and escape after assaults.
Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Marine and Blue Economy, Hon. Paul Bebe, announced the development in Makurdi. He explained that the Marine Marshal unit is a key component of Governor Hyacinth Alia’s comprehensive security framework designed to protect lives and property throughout the state. Bebe noted that the governor has already procured and supplied boats to support the unit’s operations.
The new security outfit will focus on patrolling major waterways, gathering intelligence, and collaborating with existing security agencies to ensure rapid response to threats in riverine areas. Many communities along the River Benue and other water bodies have faced challenges including attacks on farmers, kidnappings, and illegal movements by criminal groups.
According to Bebe, the previous lack of effective water-based policing allowed criminals to exploit the terrain, hampering development efforts and causing distress among residents. To counter this, the Marine Marshal Unit will be equipped with patrol boats, communication devices, and other tools necessary for monitoring waterway activities.
Youths from across the state, particularly from the most affected local government areas, have been selected to undergo specialized training in surveillance and enforcement. Bebe expressed confidence that residents see this initiative as a timely intervention by Governor Alia, emphasizing that securing waterways is crucial for achieving lasting peace and stability in Benue. He added that preparations for the official launch are nearly complete and expressed optimism that the Marine Marshals will become a formidable force in the fight against insecurity, boosting the state’s efforts to protect its people and promote economic growth in all regions.