The Nigerian Navy on Monday began series of proficiency drills on waterways and creeks as part of its preparation for the March 28 and April 11 elections. 
The exercise was aimed at showcasing the readiness of the navy for the electoral exercise, the Navy Commander in southern city of Port Harcourt, Commodore Godwin Ochai, told reporters.
He said the operation conformed with the navy’s mandate of providing maritime security for election officials, materials and the people to ensure the exercise was conducted peacefully in coastal communities.
“Our gun boats and personnel are strategically positioned on different parts of the waterways and creeks for rapid response when called upon,” he added.
The Navy chief warned criminals and other undesirable elements on the waterways to stay away as the navy would fully exercise control on the waterways.
Ochai expressed confidence that the navy, in collaboration with other security agencies, would ensure that the electorate in coastal areas voted for candidates of their choice.
He said the exercise and the 24-hour patrol of the coastal areas would continue before, during and after the elections.
Nigeria’s rescheduled presidential and national assembly elections will be held on March 28, while the governorship and state congresses elections on April 11.
The elections were previously set on Feb. 14 and Feb. 28 respectively. The country announced on Feb. 7 a six-week postponement to the elections citing fears over security and the Boko Haram insurgency. Enditem
Source: Xinhua
