The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) has hailed the Nigerian Navy (NN) for the strides it has attained over the years.

It said the performance of the Navy has been a boost to the economic gains so far recorded by the authority in recent times.

A statement issued in Lagos quoted the authority as saying it reiterated confidence in the NN for playing a significant role in stamping out the menace of piracy and sea robbery in the Nigerian waterways.

At a reception organised for senior course 35/12 Department of Maritime Warfare of the Armed Forces Command and Staff College Jaji, Kaduna at the NPA Headquarters, Marina, Lagos, the Managing Director, Alhaji Habib Abdulahi, said the visit was timely and strategic.

Abdullahi, who was represented by the Executive Director, Marine and Operations, Mr. David Omonibeke, assured the visitors of full cooperation at all times while also seeking NN understanding in all areas of its responsibilities.

The leader of the students' delegation, Commodore Kenneth B. Ati-John, had earlier in his speech, said the theme of the visit is to "improve maritime inter-agency co-operation for effective maritime agencies and economic development". He promised that NN and other members of the Armed Forces would help in the area of safety and security of the maritime industry.

Commodore Ati-John affirmed that NPA, which is a major stakeholder in the maritime industry, had made invaluable contributions to the country.

Also present at the occasion were the General Manager, Security, Lt. Col. Jamil Tahir (rtd) and the Special Assistant to the Managing Director, Malam Buhari Abdullahi.