By Helen Udo,Outlook Media ABUJA.
In the creeks and waterways of Bayelsa State, far from the glare of cameras and political noise, a quiet but relentless war is being waged — not for fame or fortune, but for peace, security, and the welfare of ordinary Nigerians.
The Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Soroh, headquartered in Yenagoa under the Central Naval Command, has emerged as a shining example of disciplined military professionalism, strategic coordination, and humanitarian commitment.
Base Operations Officer
At the helm of this renewed drive is Commodore Omobamidele Adetokunbo Akinbami, the gallant Commander of NNS Soroh. Akinbami’s fearless leadership, strategic foresight, and unwavering dedication to national service have transformed the base into one of the most effective operational units in the fight against crude oil theft, piracy, and other maritime crimes.
His command style blends operational grit with compassion, a combination that has earned the base respect among security stakeholders and admiration from the communities it protects.
Between May 2024 and April 2025, NNS Soroh under Commodore Akinbami’s command recorded impressive results. The base discovered and deactivated 145 illegal refining sites, intercepted 130 wooden boats, and seized a staggering 1,861,000 litres of illegally refined diesel (AGO) alongside 2,500,000 litres of stolen crude oil.
Additionally, the command arrested 27 suspects, dismantled 4 militant camps, and recovered a large cache of arms and ammunition — operations that struck at the heart of criminal syndicates and demonstrated zero tolerance for economic sabotage
These successes were achieved through sustained patrols, surveillance, intelligence-led missions, and coordinated security efforts. NNS Soroh collaborated closely with sister services and other security agencies in Bayelsa State to implement a unified security framework that enhances overall stability across the region.
Key hotspots such as Gbaran, Ingidigba, Biseni, Peremabiri, Foropa, and Okigbene witnessed daring raids that led to the shutdown of pirate camps and arrest of pipeline vandals. Confiscated items included vehicles, motorcycles, metal drums used in constructing illegal ovens, and weapons recovered from sea robbers.
Yet, Commodore Akinbami’s gallantry extends beyond boots on the ground and boats on the waterways. His leadership also prioritizes civil-military relations, humanitarian assistance, and social responsibility. Under his watch, NNS Soroh has executed impactful community outreach programs under its Medical and Educational Rhapsody initiative.
From Toru-Orua to Ayakoro, and Tombia to Toru-Ebeni, the base has provided free medical care, health education, and humanitarian relief. In Agudama-Epie, naval personnel physically cleared a blocked canal to prevent flooding — a practical demonstration of military service tailored to human needs. During the flooding season, NNS Soroh offered vital support to affected families, again proving its relevance beyond combat.
Commodore Akinbami also understands the power of information. His command sees the media not as a threat, but as a strategic partner — a force multiplier in promoting transparency, deterring crime, and gathering intelligence through community engagement. He continues to advocate for accurate reporting, responsible journalism, and the protection of sensitive operational details.
Despite challenges such as media misrepresentation and the occasional leak of classified data, Akinbami remains focused. His way forward emphasizes verification, collaboration, and professionalism.
In an era where many institutions struggle with public trust, Commodore Omobamidele Adetokunbo Akinbami and his team at NNS Soroh stand tall — a testament to what bold leadership, strategic action, and service-driven compassion can achieve. They remind Nigerians that true security is not only about confronting threats but also about building trust, restoring dignity, and protecting the lives and livelihoods of everyday citizens.
As the nation continues to battle organized crime and insecurity, the work being done at NNS Soroh under Commodore Akinbami’s gallant command deserves not just praise — it demands national recognition.
