Author: Dodo Elias Denen

  • Nigerian Navy Ship BEECROFT Foils Attempted Stowaway Incident On GWANGZHOU HIGHWAY PANAMA

    Nigerian Navy Ship BEECROFT Foils Attempted Stowaway Incident On GWANGZHOU HIGHWAY PANAMA


    The vigilance and quick response of the Nigerian Navy Ship BEECROFT patrol team have resulted in the successful interception and arrest of 11 stowaways aboard the vessel GWANGZHOU HIGHWAY PANAMA. The incident occurred during a routine patrol on Tuesday, October 17, 2023, at approximately 7:00 PM.

    According to an official statement signed by the Base Information Officer, Sub-Lieutenant H A Collins, the Western Regional Control Center (WRCC) was promptly alerted, leading to the vessel’s suspension within Lagos anchorage. Initially, four stowaways were captured from the stern of the ship. Subsequent information provided by these individuals disclosed the presence of seven more stowaways concealed within the vessel, bringing the total number to 11.

    The apprehended individuals, identified as Shedrack David, Emmanuel Godbless, Ibrahim Hassan, Solomon Francis, Bolaji Johnson, Samsom Aimy, Ayefuwei Collins, Ayo Gula, Jolomi Daniel, Abubakar Ibrahim, and Precious Uwalogho, have been handed over to the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) following established protocols.

    “Stowaways not only put their lives in peril during extended sea voyages but also pose significant safety and security challenges. The patrol team’s swift action serves as a crucial reminder of the Nigerian Navy’s indispensable role in maintaining maritime security and upholding the rule of law.

    “The Nigerian Navy remains committed to safeguarding the country’s maritime domain under the leadership of Vice Admiral EI Ogalla, the Chief of the Naval Staff” the statement noted.

  • CCC Rehabilitates Eti-Osa/Lekki/Epe Expressway, Seeks Commuter Cooperation

    CCC Rehabilitates Eti-Osa/Lekki/Epe Expressway, Seeks Commuter Cooperation


    …Craves for cooperation of commuters, pledge minimal disruption

    The Management of Craneburg Construction Company Limited has assured that the ongoing Rehabilitation/Re-Construction/Upgrade of the Eti-Osa/Lekki/Epe Expressway (Phase IIB) from Greensprings to Abraham Adesanya in Lagos will continue to make substantial progress.

    This they noted, while assuring smoother commute for all road users by maintaining effective traffic management measures.

    In line with its commitment to minimize disruption to the daily lives of road users and the surrounding communities, Craneburg stressed its commitment to continuously collaborate closely with the Lagos State government, working alongside relevant Ministries, Departments, Agencies, and other bodies.

    Other key partners in this endeavor include the Ministry of Works and Infrastructure, the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), the Nigeria Police Force, and the Neighborhood Watch.

    “Road construction of this magnitude inevitably leads to temporary traffic diversions, reducing the number of lanes available for road users.

    “Moreover, the occasional breakdowns and accidents involving heavy-duty vehicles, which are prevalent on this axis, further exacerbate traffic congestion on the already limited lanes, occasionally causing bottlenecks.

    “To mitigate these challenges, series of measures have been implemented as part of the project to ensure a smooth flow of traffic.

    “This includes the deployment of road signs and diversion barriers, ensuring that some lanes remain open and pothole-free during construction.

    “We also ensure implementation of an accelerated and strategic execution program for both daytime and nighttime works as well as deployment of well-trained and motivated traffic management personnel, among others.

    “The visual representations of the previous and current states of the road under the project are displayed, showcasing the tangible progress made in these traffic management efforts.

    “We urge all road users to continue to demonstrate patience, cooperation, and adherence to traffic regulations, as this is essential for a smooth traffic flow.

    “Actions that may adversely affect traffic management include non-compliance with road signs and regulations, disregard for the guidance and directions of traffic management personnel, vehicle breakdowns leading to road obstructions, and impatient driving” the statement noted.

    The company further noted that the Project, which is scheduled for early completion and delivery, remains a commendable and vital initiative that will benefit the entire community.

    Thus, they crave the understanding and cooperation of all road users as the Project continues to move forward.

  • NUJ, Poland Media Association Forge Agreement To Strengthen Journalistic Cooperation, Exchanges

    NUJ, Poland Media Association Forge Agreement To Strengthen Journalistic Cooperation, Exchanges


    In a significant move to bolster media cooperation and exchanges between two nations, the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) and the Poland Media Association (PMA) officially sealed an enduring partnership through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). The central objective of this historic MOU is the establishment of the “Journalists House,” which will serve as a hub for fostering collaboration and understanding between journalists from Nigeria and Poland.

    Leaders from both organizations participated in the formal signing ceremony, symbolizing a pivotal moment in the journalistic fraternity of the two countries. Dr. Christopher Isiguzo, President of the NUJ, inked the MOU on behalf of the Nigerian Union, while Mr. Marek Traczyk, President of the PMA, represented the Polish side. This landmark event was witnessed by an assembly of journalists hailing from diverse corners of the world, who were present to commemorate this significant accord.

    The momentous agreement transpired as part of the ongoing Belt and Road Journalists Forum held in Beijing, China, convening leaders from over 80 Journalists Unions and Associations spanning all six continents.

    The comprehensive MOU outlines several key elements. This entity, jointly established by the Nigeria Union of Journalists and the Polish Media Association, is intended to facilitate media exchanges and cooperation between journalists from Nigeria and Poland. Moreover, it welcomes the participation of financial intermediaries and associated institutions from other countries interested in this collaboration.

    The Nigeria-Polish House of Journalists will enhance Nigeria’s interregional cooperation with Central and Eastern European countries to jointly promote exchanges and collaboration among journalists from Nigeria, Poland, and other Central and Eastern European countries.

    The Association of Polish Media commits to providing support and assistance to Nigerian journalists residing in Poland, whether permanently or temporarily. Simultaneously, the Nigeria Union of Journalists will extend support and assistance to Polish journalists residing in Nigeria, thereby fostering a spirit of camaraderie and mutual aid.

    The press organizations of both countries are poised to actively organize bilateral and multilateral seminars, training, exchanges, and exhibitions, whether in-person or remotely. This initiative welcomes the active participation of interested journalists from other nations.

    Both the Association of Polish Media and the Nigeria Union of Journalists are determined to introduce the cooperation mechanism of the Nigeria-Polish House of Journalists to their members and partners through various channels to garner more support and engagement.

    This MOU signifies a remarkable leap forward in media collaboration between Nigeria and Poland. It holds the promise of deepening professional relationships, fostering mutual understanding, and promoting cross-border journalistic excellence. The signing ceremony at the Belt and Road Journalists Forum in Beijing serves as a testament to the commitment of both nations to advancing global media cooperation.

  • Akinwuntan, Other Experts To Speak At CBU Entrepreneurship Dev. Summit

    Akinwuntan, Other Experts To Speak At CBU Entrepreneurship Dev. Summit

    Former managing director and chief executive officer, MD/CEO, of Eco Bank Nigeria, Mr. Patrick Akinwuntan will lead seasoned financial experts to address seeming critical factors challenging entrepreneurship growth and specifically the huge number of small and medium enterprises in the country.

    Akinwuntan has confirmed to chair the 20th annual lecture and 29th anniversary of the Catholic Brothers United, CBU, of the St. Agnes Catholic Church Maryland, Lagos, with Governor Hope Uzodinma, of Imo state as chief guest of honour.

    Chairman of the conference organizing committee, Mr. Gabriel Akumhegie, said the theme of the conference, ‘Entrepreneurship Drive: A Tool For Mitigating Unemployment For National Growth, is apt given the declining growth of the country’s production sector.

    Akumhegie, said the programme scheduled to hold on Sunday 22nd of October 2023, at the Mc Govern hall St Agnes Catholic Church, by 12pm, is coming given the outlook of Nigeria’s employment conditions for the third quarter of this year which dropped to the lowest in nearly three years on the back of petrol subsidy removal and naira devaluation.

    Three industry experts, including Mr Nelson Akerele, the Chief Executive Director of Royal Exchange Prudential Life Assurance Plc, Dr. Mrs. Omotayo Omotosho, former Director General, Nigerian Tourism Development Commission (NTDC) and Mr. Rotimi Oyekanmi, Partner, Apis Partner LLP & former Chairman, Renmoney MFB Ltd, would form panel of discussants at the conference.

    Citing, the latest aggregate Manufacturers CEOs Confidence Index (MCCI) of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), employment conditions for July-September of 2023 deteriorated below the 50 benchmark points to 46.6 points from 47.8 points in the previous quarter.

    In a press statement by chairman publicity committee, Chika Izuora, the conference organizing committee in articulating the theme, duly observed that the global economy is currently facing significant challenges characterized by slow growth prospects, high inflation, and increased uncertainties.

    One key consequence of these challenges is the aggressive increase in interest rates, the most significant in decades, aimed at combating persistent inflation which has equally affected activities of entrepreneurs in the country.

    This tightening of financial conditions has also heightened concerns about mounting debt vulnerabilities in Nigeria and the Sub-Saharan Africa.

    The conference theme also recognized the most recent survey by the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria, MAN, which showed that employment generation of the manufacturing sector declined to 6428 in the first half of 2023. This is an indication of 32.8 per cent reduction in employment generation capacity when compared with 9559 jobs generated in the first half of 2022.

    Also, the data showed a shed of 313 jobs when compared with 6741 jobs created in the second half of 2022.

    The decline in the number of jobs created in the sector during the period further highlighted the unfriendly business environment resulting from the hasty policies and residual effect of the currency redesign policy that led to naira crunch.

    In the same vein, a total of 3567 jobs were lost in the first half of 2023, indicating 1855 more job lost when compared with the 1709 job lost in corresponding half of 2022 and 850 more jobs lost when compared with 2708 jobs lost in the last half of 2022.

    Akumhegie, also identified that one of the major hurdles confronting the manufacturing sector and indeed small scale entrepreneurs in the country is the high cost of obtaining funds.

    This challenge is substantiated by data MAN gathered during the fieldwork for the first half of 2023 report.

    According to this data, the average lending rate to the manufacturing sector from commercial banks remained high at 24 per cent when compared with what was recorded in the corresponding half of 2022.

    However, the cost of funds for the manufacturers increased by 2.0 percentage points when compared with 22.0 per cent recorded in the second half of 2022.

    The lending rates offered by commercial banks to industries are significantly influenced by the continuous upward adjustments in the Monetary Policy Rate.
    These adjustments aim to maintain a favorable real interest rate environment, with the goal of attracting foreign investment inflow, defending the domestic currency (Naira) and curbing the spiraling inflation.

    Akumhegie, said a line up of financial experts who will feature at the conference will help in addressing these challenges and proffer solutions that will help in providing jobs for the people.

  • 50 Lucky Nigerians Celebrate Victory In Polaris Bank’s Monthly “Save N Win” Promo Draw

    50 Lucky Nigerians Celebrate Victory In Polaris Bank’s Monthly “Save N Win” Promo Draw

    Polaris Bank, a leading financial institution in Nigeria, announced the emergence of another set of 50 lucky winners in the monthly draw of its ongoing “Save N Win” promo. The draw, held at the Polaris Bank Headquarters in Victoria Island, Lagos last weekend, demonstrated the bank’s dedication to rewarding its valued customers.

    The event, overseen by representatives of the Federal Competition & Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) and Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON), reaffirmed the transparency of the draw process. The 50 fortunate winners were chosen from diverse regions spanning Nigeria’s six geo-political zones, each receiving a cash prize of N10,000.

    Utilizing a hybrid media technology, the draw incorporated in-premises participation alongside virtual engagement of numerous customers and the public through the bank’s virtual network and social media handles. This inclusive approach highlighted the bank’s commitment to engaging customers across various platforms.

    Polaris Bank’s “Save N Win” promo has captivated the interest of customers nationwide, providing them with a unique opportunity to save money while standing a chance to win attractive cash prizes. This initiative not only encourages a culture of saving but also enables customers to pursue their financial aspirations while enjoying the excitement of winning.

    Speaking at the draw, Polaris Bank’s Chief Digital Officer (CDO), Dele Adeyinka, expressed gratitude to the customers for their unwavering trust and support. He reiterated the bank’s commitment to enhancing the financial well-being of its customers and prospects, emphasizing the bank’s dedication to responsible banking and financial inclusion.

    The 50 fortunate individuals will have their Polaris Bank accounts automatically credited with their winning cash prizes within five (5) working days.

    For those interested in participating in the ongoing “Save N Win” promo, Polaris Bank has outlined four ways to engage:

    1. Download VULTe on iOS and the App Store to open a Polaris Savings Account.

    2. Dial USSD *833*0# on your phone or log into the Polaris Bank savings portal, and grow your account by N10,000 or more to qualify for monthly draws.

    3. Maintain a balance of N10,000 for 3 consecutive months to qualify for quarterly draws.

    4. Customers with dormant accounts can reactivate them by dialing *833*30# without visiting the bank.

    Customers are encouraged to follow Polaris Bank’s social media handles @polarisbankltd or visit the official website to stay updated on the ongoing promo and other exciting offers.

    Polaris Bank, recognized as the Digital Bank of the Year in 2021 and 2022, remains steadfast in its commitment to delivering innovative financial solutions and empowering individuals and communities through responsible banking practices.

  • Nigeria, India Strengthen Naval Ties For Maritime Security At Gulf Of Guinea

    Nigeria, India Strengthen Naval Ties For Maritime Security At Gulf Of Guinea


    Nigeria and India have taken significant steps to reinforce their maritime collaboration, aiming to bolster security in the Gulf of Guinea. This strengthened naval alliance encompasses joint training, interoperability, hardware exchanges, and port visits, marking a pivotal moment in their enduring relationship. 

    In his welcome speech during a goodwill visit by the Indian Naval Ship (INS) Sumeda in Lagos, the Flag Officer Commanding Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral Mustapha Bala Hassan emphasized the importance of such visits in enhancing the friendship, cooperation, and interoperability between Nigeria and India.

    He highlighted that the collaboration between the two countries plays a crucial role in bolstering national security, particularly in the Gulf of Guinea region. Rear Admiral Hassan stressed the alignment of this cooperation with the vision of the Chief of Naval Staff (CNS) Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla to improve security in the maritime domain.

    “We’ve had a very beautiful relationship with India, which has spanned over five decades. The Navy, in particular, has had a good relationship encompassing training support, hardware exchanges, port visits, and joint exercises,” Rear Admiral Hassan remarked. He expressed optimism that the visit by INS Sumeda would further consolidate the security gains in the Gulf of Guinea.

    The Rear Admiral highlighted the long-standing cordial relationship between Nigeria and India, extending to both navies. This relationship has been characterized by fruitful collaborations, training, interoperability, hardware exchanges, and port calls. He noted that Port calls by Indian Navy ships, such as INS Trishu and INS Takash, have been frequent, contributing to improved maritime security in Nigeria’s waters. These collaborations align with the CNS’s vision of shaping security outcomes in the maritime domain.

    Rear Admiral Hassan acknowledged the training exchanges with the Indian Navy but expressed the need for a more balanced exchange, as more Indian students could benefit from Nigerian training institutions. He encouraged the Indian Navy to consider sending more students to Nigeria for training.

    Rear Admiral Hassan expressed eagerness to discuss ways to improve interoperability, naval infrastructure, local shipbuilding, and other areas of cooperation during the visit. 

    In a demonstration of the enduring relationship between India and Nigeria, India’s Defence Attaché, Colonel Romi Singh Legha extended his heartfelt appreciation for the warm welcome and valuable interaction during his visit. The dialogue served as a testament to the deep-rooted partnership between the two nations, which spans several decades.

    Colonel Legha acknowledged the rich history of relations between Nigeria and India, with India taking the significant step of establishing its high commission in Nigeria two years before the country’s independence in 1958. 

    He informed that in the early years of collaboration, India played an instrumental role in setting up the Nigerian Defence Academy and the Naval Academy in Port Harcourt. Notably, the initial commandants of these institutions were from India, with Brigadier Verma, in particular, remembered as the pioneer commandant of the Nigerian Defence Academy for its first two years.

    Under the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) program, India and Nigeria have engaged in numerous interactions. Every year, approximately 150 courses are offered under this program, with the Nigerian Navy benefiting from around 45 to 50 courses annually. This fully funded scheme, which includes travel to and from India, has seen the training of over 75,000 officers and men from the Nigerian armed forces in India. This significant effort is regarded as one of India’s most substantial contributions to capacity building for the Nigerian armed forces.

    Regarding the current visit, Colonel Legha shared that India’s naval vessel, INS Sumedha, has been deployed in the region for approximately 20 days. This deployment goes beyond mere port calls, as operational deployment and anti-piracy operations in the Gulf of Guinea are part of the mission.

    He acknowledged that due to the collective efforts of the Nigerian Navy and other regional navies, piracy in the region has been notably reduced. In fact, the past year saw a significant decline in piracy incidents, marking a substantial achievement for all involved.

    INS Sumedha’s mission also includes exercises and interactions with navies from other countries in the region, such as Ghana, Togo, Senegal, and Algeria. These initiatives are part of a broader effort to enhance cooperation, foster interoperability, and strengthen the bonds between Nigeria and India in the defense realm.

    The visit by Colonel Romi Singh Legha and INS Sumedha underscores the commitment of both nations to fortify their defense ties, contributing to peace, security, and maritime stability in the Gulf of Guinea and beyond.

  • NIMASA ACT Amendment Bill Passes First Reading At The Senate

    NIMASA ACT Amendment Bill Passes First Reading At The Senate

    …As Jamoh Pledges continuous industry Capacity Building.

    L-R: Chairman, Senate Committee on Marine Transport, Senator Wasiu Eshinlokun; Director General, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, NIMASA, Dr. Bashir Jamoh OFR; Member, Senate Committee on Marine Transport, Senator Mpigi Barinda and Vice Chairman, Senate Committee on Marine Transport, Senator Sunday Karimi during an Oversight visit by the Senate Committee on Marine Transport to NIMASA in Lagos.

    The bill to amend the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency NIMASA Act has passed the first reading on the Floor of the Nigerian Senate.

    Chairman Senate Committee on Marine Transport, Senator Wasiu Sanni Eshinlokun, who announced this during a working visit by the committee to NIMASA operational offices in Lagos  noted that the senate of the tenth assembly is committed to formulating policies that will ensure Nigerians enjoy the benefits of the blue economy.

    L-R: Member, Senate Committee on Marine Transport, Senator David Jimkuta; Director General, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, NIMASA, Dr. Bashir Jamoh OFR; Chairman, Senate Committee on Marine Transport, Senator Wasiu Eshinlokun; Senator Hashiru Oyelola; Senator Biyi Fadeyi and Clerk of the Committee on Marine Transport, Dauda Bukat during an Oversight visit by the Senate Committee on Marine Transport to NIMASA in Lagos.

    Speaking further, the Committee Chairman averred that a constructive evaluation of the existing maritime legal framework was necessary to ascertain gaps for possible review, pledging that the Senate under the leadership of Senator Godswill Akpabio was committed to supporting the maritime sector, in line with the vision of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR.

    “Let me inform you that the bill seeking amendment of the NIMASA Act has passed first reading on the floor of the senate.

    R-L: Chairman, Senate Committee on Marine Transport, Senator Wasiu Eshinlokun; Director General, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, NIMASA, Dr. Bashir Jamoh OFR and Vice Chairman, Senate Committee on Marine Transport, Senator Sunday Karimi during an Oversight visit by the Senate Committee on Marine Transport to NIMASA in Lagos.

    I have to say on behalf of my colleagues that we are with you on this journey, and we will not hesitate to support your vision, in as much as such is geared towards enhancing the potential of the maritime sector for national growth and development. 

    With the creation of the Marine and Blue Economy Ministry by Mr. President, a message has been passed to all stakeholders that the maritime industry has a huge role to play in our nation building. We must align with the vision of the President, and we must support the government to achieve a better country for all Nigerians”, Sani said.

    L-R: Member Senate Committee on Marine Transport, Senator Asuquo Ekoenyong; Director General, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, NIMASA, Dr. Bashir Jamoh OFR; Chairman, Senate Committee on Marine Transport, Senator Wasiu Eshinlokun; Senate Committee on Marine Transport, Senator David Jimkuta and other members of the Senate Committee on Marine Transport during an Oversight visit by the Committee on Marine Transport to NIMASA in Lagos.

    The Committee members unanimously acknowledged NIMASA’s investment in acquisition and building of a strong safety and security architecture, reiterating that such effort was a confirmation that NIMASA was conscious of its mandate and strategic status as one of Nigeria’s major contributors to the country’s sustainable development. 

    A member of the Committee, Senator Abdul Ningi, commended NIMASA Management stating that much progress has been made over the years. I have visited this Agency over the years, and must note that much progress hasbeen made over the years. You have done very well. He said.

    R-L: Member Senate Committee on Marine Transport, Senator Abdul Ningi; Chairman, Senate Committee on Marine Transport, Senator Wasiu Eshinlokun; Director General, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, NIMASA, Dr. Bashir Jamoh OFR and other members of the Senate Committee on Marine Transport during an Oversight visit by the Committee on Marine Transport to NIMASA in Lagos.

    In his welcome remarks, the Director General of NIMASA, Dr. Bashir Jamoh OFR, noted that the Agency is committed to both human capacity and infrastructural development to grow the Nigerian blue economy.

    Speaking further, Jamoh stated that a well-developed marine and blue economy would be strong enough to service Nigeria’s annual budget because it encompasses all economic activities associated with the oceans and seas. 

    Director General, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, NIMASA, Dr. Bashir Jamoh OFR (left) and Chairman, Senate Committee on Marine Transport, Senator Wasiu Eshinlokun during an Oversight visit by the Committee on Marine Transport to NIMASA Lagos.

    According to Jamoh, “NIMASA is working tirelessly to secure our waters and  by extension, the Gulf of Guinea. The time has come for us as a nation to build on the recent gains in the area of safety and security of our waterways. Rest assured that NIMASA is utilizing appropriated funds judiciously, evident in our investment in infrastructure. We will continue in the direction President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has pointed with the creation of the Marine and Blue Economy Ministry.

  • Nigeria, French Navies Underscoring The Crucial Role Of Such Partnerships In Safeguarding The Maritime Domain — Dujon

    Nigeria, French Navies Underscoring The Crucial Role Of Such Partnerships In Safeguarding The Maritime Domain — Dujon


    The French Defense Attaché to Nigeria, Colonel Guillaume Dujon has commended the exceptional interaction between the Nigerian Navy and the French Navy, underscoring the crucial role of such partnerships in safeguarding the maritime domain.

    Initiated on October 9 by Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, the Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS), at the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) BEECROFT in Apapa, these exercises concluded on October 10.

    Speaking at the conclusion of Exercise Crocodile Lift and Exercise Grand African Nemo, Colonel Dujon praised the successful collaboration between the two naval forces, especially within the complex maritime context of the Gulf of Guinea.

    He commended Nigeria’s remarkable development of amphibious warfare capabilities, noting that Nigeria had become the first coastal state in Western Africa to achieve this level of proficiency.

    20,000 Tons French Navy Ship

    Colonel Dujon also highlighted past accomplishments in securing the maritime domain, emphasizing the vital role such alliances play in bolstering regional security and supporting international trade.

    “This great interaction with the Nigerian Navy is good especially with one of our French ships at the Gulf of Guinea also extending cooperation for the control of the maritime domain.

    “We also share our experience in maritime security with the assets we have at the moment,” he said.

    Dujon said that the relationship between the two navies had been cordial since Ex Grand African Nemo, which was a multilateral exercise held every year with some coastal state of Guinea.

    “However, Ex Crocodile Lift is a bilateral exercise in itself and it is interesting to interact on a new area, which is an amphibious warfare that is very specific.

    “Nigeria is the first coastal state in Western Africa to develop such capability and I am very impressed and appreciate what the nation has achieved so far,” he said.

    The Colonel said that in March, the bilateral relationship between the Nigerian Navy and French Navy yielded good result when both navies intervened to ensure that a hijacked tanker, MONJASA REFORMER was secured.

    “So, it is important to ensure the security of the maritime domain especially at the Gulf of Guinea because of promoting international trade, regional security among other benefits.

    “It is very important that we get to know the navies and to know how to interact with them,” Dujon said

    In his assessment of the joint exercises, the Flag Officer Commanding (FOC) of the Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral Muhammed Abdullahi expressed his satisfaction and underscored the multitude of benefits that stem from collaboration between the Nigerian Navy and the French Navy. This partnership, he affirmed, is integral to ensuring maritime security and fostering economic prosperity within the Gulf of Guinea.

    Rear Admiral Abdullahi explained that the purpose of the combined exercise was to train the Nigerian Navy troops in conjunction with their foreign partners.

    He stated, “Ex Crocodile Lift is a French initiative designed to facilitate sea lift operations, fostering collaboration and enhancing capabilities. While the Nigerian Navy possesses the capacity to carry out sea lifts independently, cooperation with our foreign partners aims to ensure the safety and security of our maritime environment, particularly in the Gulf of Guinea, while allowing for knowledge exchange.”

    Rear Admiral Abdullahi emphasized the importance of collaborating with the French Navy as a means to share experiences, build capacity, and learn from each other.

    He also highlighted the various phases of maritime crime, including crude oil theft, illegal oil bunkering, piracy, sea robbery, hostage-taking, and Illegal Unreported and Unregulated Fishing (IUUF), stating that combating these crimes required diverse tactics.

    The FOC reiterated the significance of exercises like this in fostering international cooperation and enhancing the capabilities of naval officers.

    He further discussed the positive impact of such collaborations in securing the maritime environment and ensuring economic prosperity.

  • PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION APPEAL: DG SS Not Blackmailing S’Court Justices’ – Investigation

    PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION APPEAL: DG SS Not Blackmailing S’Court Justices’ – Investigation

    …Report figment of Ude’s imagination – Intelligence Sources

    Reports alleging that the Director General of the Department of State Services (DG SS), Alhaji YM Bichi, is blackmailing justices of the Supreme Court to tilt judgement in the pending appeal in favour of President Bola Tinubu, are false, baseless, and a figment of the imagination of the purveyors, investigations have revealed.

    Highly-placed sources at the DSS, who spoke in confidence on the matter, accused Mr. Jackson Ude of “peddling dangerous falsehood”, which consequence may be grave.

    Speaking in confidence with our correspondent, one of the intelligence sources said: “The general public is invited to note that the allegation against the DG SS is not only spurious, but a figment of the imagination of Jackson Ude.

    “On my honour, I make bold to say that Alh. Bichi, the DG SS, has a record of an unblemished carrier, which does not allow for institutional interference of any form whatsoever.

    “It is, therefore, unthinkable to make such allegations, more so that the DSS under the leadership of Alh. Bichi, has continued to nurtur the culture of the rule of law across all facets of the agency.

    “As journalists, I plead that you ignore reports from Jackson Ude and his ilks, as they serve no purpose other than to mislead the undiscerning public, and heat up the polity.

    “Let me close by saying that Nigerians are too sophisticated for the likes of Jackson Ude to hoodwink them, or pull the wool over their eyes”.

  • Ogalla Flags Off Combined Maritime Security Exercises

    Ogalla Flags Off Combined Maritime Security Exercises



    In a show of unwavering commitment to maritime security in the Gulf of Guinea (GoG), the Chief of the Naval Staff of the Nigerian Navy, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla has flagged off combined flag-off the “Crocodile Lift” and “Grand African Nemo” 2023 Exercises for effective maritime security.

    The Exercises Crocodile Lift and Grand African Nemo 2023 are collaborative initiatives between the French Navy and the Nigerian Navy, aimed at bolstering maritime security efforts in the Gulf of Guinea. The decision to merge these exercises was driven by the overlapping timelines of both events and the need for a multifaceted approach to maritime security.

    In his speech during the official flagoff on board the Nigerian Navy Ship KADA on October 9, 2023, Vice Admiral Ogalla highlighted the significant security challenges facing the GoG region, emphasizing that many of these threats directly target Nigeria’s economic lifeline.

    He pointed out that the criminal activities, including crude oil theft and illegal oil bunkering, pose a grave risk to national well-being stressing the importance of national and international collaboration to mitigate these threats effectively.

    The Chief of the Naval Staff commended Exercises Crocodile Lift and Grand African Nemo as well-thought-out international exercises involving the Nigerian Navy. Expressing optimism, he stated that these exercises would add impetus to his vision of creating a “highly motivated professional naval force capable of shaping the security outcomes within Nigeria’s maritime domain and the littorals.”

    Ogalla reiterated the Nigerian Navy’s commitment to the objectives of the Yaoundé protocol, emphasizing its role in ensuring maritime security in the GoG region.

    In his words: “Undeniably, Exercises CROCODILE LIFT AND GRAND AFRICAN NEMO which have both become annual events, are some of the well thought out international exercises involving the Nigerian Navy. It is gratifying to note that these exercises have further enhanced effective collaboration against maritime insecurity such as Crude Oil Theft, illegal oil bunkering, piracy, sea robbery, hostage taking as well as Illegal Unreported and Unregulated Fishing.

    “Overall, I am optimistic that these Exercises will add impetus to my vision to have ‘highly motivated professional naval force capable of shaping the security outcomes within Nigeria’s maritime domain and the littorals including land-based engagements in fulfillment of Nigeria’s national interest’. Additionally, the Exercises will further demonstrate Nigerian Navy’s commitment to the objectives of the Yaoundé protocol in ensuring maritime security in the GoG” Ogalla noted.

    Also speaking, The French Defence Attaché to Nigeria, Col. Laurent Favier acknowledged the collaborative efforts, highlighting the value of the cooperation that has developed between France and Nigeria, particularly within the Nigerian Navy’s maritime security efforts. He also praised Nigeria’s leadership in the Yaoundé architecture, a regional initiative that promotes maritime security in the Gulf of Guinea.

    The French Defence Attaché underscored the tangible signs of cooperation, including the presence of the French Landing Helicopter Dock Mistral in Lagos as part of the CORYMBE mission, signifying the growing confidence between the two Navies.

    “With the aim of supporting the development of the Blue economy among the Coastal States, the Nigerian Navy has been engaged for many years in this fight against piracy, illegal fishing, and various forms of criminality at sea, achieving outstanding results in 2022, with a significant decrease in incidents.

    “On a more global scale, Nigeria has also played a leading role in the development of the Yaoundé architecture, which celebrates this year its Tenth anniversary, especially by implementing the YARIS CIS system to allow better sharing of information on maritime activity in the Gulf of Guinea. The presence in Lagos of our Landing Helicopter Dock Mistral in the framework of the CORYMBE mission and of the European Union’s coordinated maritime presence appears today as a tangible sign of the confidence that is now established between our two Navies.” Colonel Favier noted.

    On his part, the Flag Officer Commanding Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral Mohammed Abdullahi highlighted the importance of these exercises in creating a safe and secure maritime environment, preventing piracy, sea robbery, crude oil theft, illegal bunkering, and other forms of criminal activities within the Western Naval Command’s area of responsibility which according to him aligns with the Chief of the Naval Staff’s vision for harnessing Nigeria’s maritime environment for economic growth.

    Abdullahi emphasized the collaborative nature of this year’s exercise, involving multiple Maritime Operation Zones of the Yaoundé architecture. He informed that the Nigerian Navy will deploy seven ships, one Special Boat Service unit, two helicopters, and four Maritime Operation Centers to ensure the success of Exercise Grand African Nemo 2023.

    The Western Naval Command Flag Officer Commanding assured the public of the Western Naval Command’s commitment to providing a conducive maritime environment for legitimate businesses. He stressed the importance of collaboration and information sharing among stakeholders and other regional Navies to address maritime challenges effectively.

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