The Benue State Government has started training a new group of Marine Marshals as part of efforts to improve security in riverine and waterway communities across the state.
The move is coming amid rising concerns over attacks and criminal activities reportedly carried out by armed groups who use rivers and waterways as escape routes after targeting communities along the riverbanks.
This was made known in Makurdi by the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Marine and Blue Economy, Hon. Paul Bebe.
He explained that the Marine Marshal initiative is part of Governor Hyacinth Alia’s wider plan to strengthen security and protect lives and property in areas bordering rivers.
According to him, the new security team will patrol waterways, gather intelligence, and support existing security agencies in responding quickly to threats in riverine communities. He also revealed that the governor has provided boats to support their operations.
Bebe noted that several communities along River Benue and other waterways have continued to face serious security challenges, including attacks on farmers, kidnapping cases, and illegal movement of armed groups.
He said the lack of proper security monitoring on water routes has allowed criminals to take advantage of the environment, making life difficult for residents and slowing down development in affected areas.
He added that the Marine Marshal unit will be equipped with patrol boats, communication tools, and other equipment needed for effective monitoring of activities on the waterways.
According to him, young people have been selected from different parts of the state, especially from communities most affected by insecurity, to undergo specialised training in surveillance and security operations.
He also said many residents have welcomed the initiative, describing it as timely and important for restoring peace in riverine areas.
Bebe expressed confidence that once fully launched, the Marine Marshals will play a strong role in reducing insecurity and improving safety, while also supporting economic activities across Benue State.