The Olurmeni XII, His Royal Highness, King Elvis Victor N. Woji Okocha, Natural Ruler, Nye Ali Rumuorlumeni , has said the Rumuorlumeni community’s decision to honour and adopt the new Commanding Officer of Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Pathfinder, Commodore Mutalib Ibikunle Raji, is aimed at strengthening security collaboration and fostering mutual trust.
KING Okocha stated this while formally receiving the naval commander in Rumuorlumeni, Akpor Kingdom, Obio/Akpor Local Government Area of Rivers State.
The Engineer turned Traditional Ruler, described the development as a significant step towards enhancing the existing relationship between the community and the Nigerian Navy.
The monarch explained that the symbolic adoption reflects the community’s commitment to peaceful coexistence and its readiness to support the Navy in the protection of lives, property, and the nation’s maritime domain.
According to him , the decision would improve intelligence sharing between residents and naval authorities, thereby boosting efforts to curb criminal activities such as oil theft, piracy, and other security threats in the area.
He further observed that a strengthened partnership would create a safer environment for economic activities, particularly within the oil and gas sector, which plays a vital role in the local and national economy.
The royal father also emphasized that the move would promote better civil-military relations, reduce tensions, and encourage constructive engagement in addressing issues affecting both the host community and the naval formation.
According to him, the collaboration is expected to open doors for community development initiatives, including youth empowerment programmes and other interventions that would benefit residents.
He added that a friendly and cooperative naval presence would help steer local youths away from criminal activities and encourage them to embrace lawful and productive ventures.
King Okocha further stated that for the Nigerian Navy, the strengthened relationship would provide a more secure and supportive operational environment, essential for effective service delivery.
He noted that community support remains critical to the success of security operations, particularly in navigating the socio-cultural dynamics of host communities.
The monarch assured that Rumuorlumeni would continue to maintain peace and support all lawful efforts by the Navy to secure the nation’s territorial waters.
He reiterated that the development marks a renewed commitment by both parties to work together in promoting peace, security, and sustainable development in the area.
Meanwhile, the Navel officer has assured their host of commitments that will enhance between the Community and the Navy as he lauedd them for the honor them him.
