The Nigerian Navy Forward Operating Base (FOB) Badagry has successfully intercepted a human trafficking operation and seized a significant quantity of smuggled rice in two separate operations, demonstrating their commitment to maritime security and economic stability in Nigeria and the Gulf of Guinea.
In the first incident, on June 1, 2024, at approximately 16:47, a patrol team from FOB Badagry, while on routine surveillance at Tongeji Island, intercepted a wooden fibre passenger boat in the midstream area. Upon questioning, three young women, Nanbet Mwantu, Kyendi Pofi, and Patience Amos, claimed they were en route to Lagos.
However, the patrol team found this suspicious as the route suggested they were heading to the Benin Republic.
Further interrogation revealed that the women were likely being trafficked from Nigeria to the Benin Republic by one Miss Mozie Promise. The suspected trafficker was subsequently located, arrested, and taken to the base along with the victims. On June 4, 2024, the suspects and the victims were handed over to the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) Zonal Office in Ikeja, Lagos, for further investigation and prosecution. This action aligns with the Harmonized Standard Procedures on Arrest, Detention, and Prosecution (HSOP-AD&P) 2016.
Captain Bitebobo Augustus Amakiri, Commanding Officer of FOB Badagry, emphasized that these efforts are part of the CNS Strategic Directive 2023-6, which aims to ensure a safe and secure maritime environment in Nigeria and the Gulf of Guinea.
In a separate operation, on June 7, 2024, at about 05:30, acting on credible human intelligence from a local fisherman, the FOB Badagry patrol team intercepted a suspicious boat that had run aground at the Badagry-Porto Novo creek along the Topo-Idale route. The boat was found to contain several bags of foreign parboiled rice. During the interception, the suspects abandoned the vessel and swam through a swampy area to reach the shore. The boat and its contents were taken into custody for further investigation.
These actions are in line with the mission set forth by Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS), and Rear Admiral Mustapha Bala Hassan, Flag Officer Commanding Western Naval Command, who launched Operation WATER GUARD on November 9, 2023. This operation aims to deny smugglers and other criminal elements the freedom to operate within the Western Naval Command’s area of operations, ensuring security and economic stability in the region.
Captain Amakiri reiterated that these sustained efforts by FOB Badagry are crucial for maintaining a secure maritime environment, which is essential for economic activities to thrive in Nigeria and the Gulf of Guinea.
The Nigerian Navy’s proactive measures and strategic operations continue to play a vital role in safeguarding the nation’s waters and contributing to the fight against smuggling and human trafficking.
Category: Maritime Sector
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Nigerian Navy Intercepts Human Trafficker, Seizes Smuggled Rice
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Vice Admiral Ogalla, Delta Governor Oborevwori, Others to Receive Prestigious Silent Heroes Awards
On Saturday, June 8, 2024, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, Chief of the Naval Staff; Rt. Hon. Sheriff F.O. Oborevwori, Governor of Delta State; Professor Leroy Chuma Edozien; IGP Kayode Egbetokun; and Pastor Ikechukwu Edmund Ezeobi, will be among the distinguished individuals honored at the sixth edition of the Nigerian Silent Heroes Award (NSHA). The ceremony will take place at Cabana Hall, Wells Carlton Hotel, Asokoro, Abuja.
Vice Admiral Ogalla is recognized as a Silent Hero in Maritime Security, while Governor Oborevwori is honored for Infrastructure Development. Professor Edozien will be acknowledged for his contributions to Medicine and Politics, reflecting his dedication to Nigeria’s development and his selfless service to humanity. IGP Egbetokun is celebrated for his achievements in Policing, and Pastor Ezeobi is recognized for over two decades of pastoral work both locally and internationally, earning him the title of Silent Hero of Faith.
The NSHA, hosted annually by SHA Initiative, aims to recognize and express society’s gratitude to individuals who have made significant contributions through their dedication and silent service. Founded by journalist and humanitarian Odita Sunday-Udemaguna, the initiative highlights unsung heroes whose efforts drive the nation’s progress.
“In our larger society, there are men and women who are silently working assiduously behind the scenes to oil our nation’s wheel of progress,” Sunday-Udemaguna said. “These people are Silent Heroes in their own right but have largely remained unsung and under-celebrated. They are the reason our nation has made the modest progress recorded in different spheres in contemporary times.”
Other notable awardees include Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle, Minister of State for Defence, recognized for Governance; Alhaji Jibrin Baba Nadace, Director General of Voice of Nigeria, honored in Journalism; and Dr. Awele Elumelu, CEO of Avon Medical Practice, acknowledged in Medicine.
The ceremony will also honor Mr. Dozy Mmobuosi, CEO of Tingo Inc., for Fintech & Agro Development in Africa; ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi for Police Image Management; Dr. Ejikeme Odumegwu Owelle for Philanthropy; and Alex Nwankwo, CEO of Amity Global Network, for Image Management. Evelyn Usman, Assistant Crime Editor at Vanguard Newspaper, will be celebrated for Print Media Journalism.
Additional awardees include:
– Ogbu Johnson Chinecherem as Silent Hero in Nollywood
– Mr. Jason Bent for Administration
– Professor Muhammad Shafi’u Abdullahi for Education
– Mrs. Judith Ogunleye (Ofulue) for Community Development and Philanthropy
– Mr. Monye Lucky Ehiwogwu for Private Security Practice
– Shina Philips for Management
– Dr. Osadebe Osakwe for Business and Philanthropy
– Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko for Human Rights
– Chief Dr. Aisha Tosan for Media
– Yushau Shuaib for Security Advocacy
– Ebaide Omiunu for Climate Change & Social Impact
– Haliru Nababa, Controller General of Nigerian Correctional Service, for Public Service
– Moses Amiebenomo for Business & EnterpriseZenith Bank will be recognized for contributions to the Banking Sector, Prince Martins for SME Development & Job Creation, Chief Nwoye-oba Chinedu Jonathan, CEO of Lamido Motors, for Business and Enterprise, Christian Ogbonna for Business & Enterprise in Manchester, Christopher Okonkwo for Cyber Security & Artificial Intelligence, and Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, Governor of Kogi State, for Security Management.
The event will also feature the unveiling of a magazine and a compendium titled “Nigeria’s Silent Heroes Volume 11,” documenting the achievements of these individuals across diverse fields such as Education, Security, Journalism, Industry, Oil and Gas, Real Estate, and Governance.
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Federal Operations Unit Zone ‘B’ Intercepts N3.96 Billion Worth Of Pangolin Scales In Kebbi State
The Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone B of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has announced a significant anti-smuggling operation, intercepting a consignment of pangolin scales valued at N3,955,596,000.
The operation, led by Comptroller Ahmadu Bello Shuaibu, marks a notable success in the ongoing efforts to combat illegal wildlife trading and smuggling activities in the region.
Speaking at a media briefing, Comptroller Shuaibu highlighted the recent achievements of the unit since the previous briefing on May 21, 2024.
He reiterated the unit’s commitment to curbing illegal trading in endangered wildlife species, emphasizing the importance of protecting such species under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), to which Nigeria is a signatory.
The seizure took place on May 24, 2024, following actionable intelligence that led operatives to a hideout, referred to as the “slaughter house,” in the suburbs of Zuru Town, Kebbi State.
The operation, conducted at approximately 1600hrs, resulted in the discovery and confiscation of 445.45 kg of pangolin scales. The contraband was subsequently transported to the FOU Zone B headquarters in Kaduna for further examination.
A suspect was arrested in connection with the seizure, while the main suspect remains at large. Comptroller Shuaibu assured that the unit, in collaboration with other agencies, is actively pursuing the main suspect to ensure they are brought to justice. The offence contravenes Section 55 (1) paragraphs C and I of the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023.
Comptroller Shuaibu attributed the success of the operation to robust intelligence sharing between the NCS and wildlife authorities, coupled with the determination and strategic execution by the operatives.
He underscored the broader implications of such illegal activities, noting that trafficking in endangered species often serves as a cover for money laundering and the procurement of drugs, arms, and other illegal merchandise.
In his address, Comptroller Shuaibu called on the public to support the NCS in its fight against smuggling, urging collective efforts to safeguard the nation’s wildlife and uphold the vision of Nigeria’s founding fathers.
He affirmed that the unit will continue to enforce federal government policies in line with international best practices, undeterred by any opposition.
The Comptroller concluded by commending the operatives for their resilience and ensuring a casualty-free operation, reinforcing the NCS’s commitment to protecting Nigeria’s natural heritage and maintaining security within the region.
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WMC: Nigeria Customs Service Seizes Cannabis Sativa, Foreign Rice, Others Worth Over N155 Million, Hands Over Drugs To NDLEA
The Western Marine Command (WMC) of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has made significant strides in its ongoing efforts to combat smuggling activities along the Western Waterways. Recently, the Command intercepted and seized 17 sacks containing 1,257 loaves of Cannabis Sativa, with a combined weight of 720kg and an estimated value of over 96 million Naira. Additionally, the Command confiscated 505 bags of foreign parboiled rice worth over 59 million Naira.
On the night of May 15, 2024, at around 11:00 PM, officers and men of the WMC stationed at Bar Beach received credible intelligence regarding a boat carrying suspected illegal items on the high seas. Acting swiftly, the patrol team intercepted a fiber boat equipped with a 200HP Yamaha engine. Upon inspection, they discovered the 17 sacks filled with loaves of Cannabis Sativa.
In a related incident on May 19, 2024, a joint patrol team from the Command was conducting a routine patrol along Panko Creek, Badagry Waterways, when they encountered a wooden boat with a 25HP Yamaha engine carrying suspected contraband items. The smugglers abandoned their boat and dived into the water upon sighting the patrol. A thorough examination revealed the boat was transporting 505 bags of 50kg foreign parboiled rice, totaling 59,185,000 Naira in value.
The actions of these smugglers violate sections 245 and 254 of the NCS Act 2023, which the WMC is mandated to enforce. In line with the Comptroller General’s policy of interagency collaboration, the WMC, led by Comptroller Paul Bamisaiye, received approval to hand over the seized Cannabis Sativa, including 72 loaves previously confiscated, to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).
Comptroller Paul Bamisaiye expressed gratitude to the CGC and the NCS management for their support and motivation. He urged the general public and traders to refrain from engaging in illicit drug activities and smuggling, which are considered economic sabotage. He emphasized that such activities contribute to the prevalence of societal menaces such as banditry, kidnapping, and armed robbery.
The Western Marine Command remains committed to enhancing its performance in combating smuggling and ensuring the safety and security of the maritime domain.
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Prof Alexander Okwuashi Advocates Economic Reforms To Combat Rising Business Costs
At the 20th Anniversary Lecture and Awards Ceremony of People’s Forum Magazine & Online, Professor Alexander Favour Okwuashi, Ph.D., FCIS, Proprietor and Founder of the Certified Institute of Shipping of Nigeria and Coastal Polytechnic Magbon, Lagos, delivered a compelling speech on “Business Transactions and Rising Cost: The Way Forward.”In his address, Professor Okwuashi highlighted several factors contributing to escalating business costs in Nigeria from 2000 to 2024. He pointed to government economic policies, scarcity of foreign currencies, systemic corruption, lack of sustainable productivity in local industries, falling oil prices, high production costs, and unstable power supply as critical issues.
Professor Okwuashi outlined several key recommendations to tackle these challenges. He suggested re-establishing a Marketing Board to implement price control policies, ensuring commodity prices are regulated and not arbitrarily increased. Additionally, he urged the Federal Government, through the Central Bank of Nigeria, to ensure foreign exchange availability for importers, facilitating the importation of goods at minimal costs. An effective monetary policy to boost the Naira’s value was recommended, aiming to enhance the purchasing power of the average citizen. Policies to stop inflationary trends and create wealth and productivity were emphasized as crucial for economic stability.
He called for a revolutionary change in transportation to reduce the cost of goods and services, including reviewing the impacts of oil subsidy removal and implementing genuine palliatives to mitigate these effects. Floating policies to support local industries through steady and affordable energy supply, improved infrastructure, and access to raw materials were highlighted as vital. Stimulating entrepreneurial skills among youths to boost job creation and wealth was seen as essential for sustaining a competitive market. Establishing mechanisms for periodic evaluation of market forces and formulating strategies to address adverse trends were proposed. Additionally, the media should expose anti-economic practices, inform the public on price dynamics, and guide consumers on obtaining goods at fair prices.
In conclusion, Professor Okwuashi emphasized the importance of reintroducing the modified cabotage law to enhance employment, shipbuilding, and capacity building within the maritime economy. He advocated for local content improvement in the shipping and oil and gas sectors, and for cabotage vessel funding to support low-cost transportation and reduce road traffic congestion. These measures, he argued, would significantly boost the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Professor Okwuashi expressed optimism that if these suggestions are critically addressed by the federal government, there would be a notable reduction in the prices of goods and services. He extended his gratitude to the People’s Forum organizers for the opportunity to speak on such a pertinent issue.
During the ceremony, Comptroller Ahmadu Shuaibu was honored with an award for being the most outstanding customs controller, recognizing his exceptional contributions to the field. -
NIGERIAN NAVY @68: Sanwo-Olu Expresses Gratitude To Nigerian Navy For Outstanding Service
Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State has expressed profound gratitude to the Nigerian Navy for their unwavering commitment and invaluable contributions to the nation’s security. During the 2024 Nigerian Navy Week Celebration Ceremonial Sunset/Reunion Dinner, held at the Naval Dockyard Parade Ground in Victoria Island, Lagos, Sanwo-Olu acknowledged the Navy’s efforts in creating a safe environment for citizens.Represented by Deputy Governor Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, Sanwo-Olu stated, “The entire country owes the Nigerian Navy a debt of gratitude for their invaluable services, which include protecting waterways, maritime infrastructure, preventing piracy, and curbing oil theft.”
He extended special appreciation on behalf of Lagos State, adding, “We owe you a lot of gratitude and pray that God will continue to be with you.”Sanwo-Olu also recognized the contributions of retired Naval Officers, appreciating their ongoing support and encouragement to active personnel.
In his welcome address, Chief of Naval Staff Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla highlighted the Navy’s achievements over its 68-year history. “The Nigerian Navy has grown to be the 5th largest navy in Africa, with over 48 capital ships, and at all times, more than 70 percent of these ships are operational,” Ogalla noted.He detailed the Navy’s advancements, including the acquisition of helicopters and air assets that enhance fleet readiness. He proudly stated that the Nigerian Navy boasts the most sophisticated maritime domain awareness capability in the world, incorporating both coastal and over-the-horizon radars.
Ogalla emphasized the Navy’s success in reducing oil theft and criminal activities in Nigerian waters over the past eleven months. “Prior to 2022, Nigeria was listed as one of the piracy-prone countries in the world. However, with the collaboration of the Nigerian Air Force, Army, and Police, we have eliminated piracy to the extent that the International Maritime Bureau has delisted Nigeria from the list of piracy-prone nations,” he explained.
The Sunset Dinner, marking the end of the naval year, celebrated these achievements and the Navy’s dedication to its mission. The event underscored the Navy’s pivotal role in ensuring national security and the collective gratitude of the Nigerian people.
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THE WOMEN CALLED WIVES: A Movie Advocating For Change, Resilience Among Naval Officers’ Wives
In an inspiring initiative to address societal issues and advocate for change, Abaji Maimuna Yahaya, a renowned actor, movie producer, and naval wife, has produced a film titled “The Women Called Wives.” Yahaya, who also serves as the National PRO of the Naval Officers Wives Association, emphasizes that the movie aims to instill core values and highlight the unique challenges faced by women married to military men.
“The idea behind the movie is advocacy,” Yahaya explained. “We try to use the movie to talk about core values that we want to impact in society and things that we think should be changed because, over time, there’s been an evolution. Some traditional practices have not changed. As a woman, I chose to speak about those things and, if possible, correct them.”
“The Women Called Wives” delves into pressing issues such as hunger, starvation, unemployment, drug abuse, and the struggles within marriages and family units. It sheds light on the peculiar challenges faced by military wives and offers guidance on coping, adapting, and improving family dynamics.
Mrs. Yahaya expressed confidence that the film would significantly impact women in the naval community. “We have taken steps to speak about some of the things we have considered as ills and documented them in a movie form to educate. We are watching to see how we can apply this in our homes, support our husbands, and make positive changes.”
The movie, which will be aired on DSTV and shown to officers’ wives nationwide, aims to reorient thinking and promote resilience. “When you see a movie over time, it begins to gradually affect the way you think. We will achieve the reorientation that we are working on,” Yahaya noted.
Abaji Maimuna Yahaya prioritizes activities that build her family and mind, participating in training, events, and seminars designed to support naval officers’ wives. “It takes a strong breed to be married to a military man. We need to stay focused, strong, and supportive.”
As part of their initiatives, the Naval Officers Wives Association hosts programs to impact both commissioned and non-commissioned officers’ wives, emphasizing strength, mental and physical well-being, and self-love.
Yahaya also highlighted the importance of prayer for military wives. “Every woman, whether a military wife or not, should be prayerful. Without God, we will all be losing our minds. The uncertainty of our husbands’ safety is scary, and prayer is a stabilizing factor.”
Her message to officers’ wives is clear: “Be strong, be prayerful, pray for your husbands day and night, stabilize your homes, and preserve your minds and those of your families. We will continue to sail in unity and unison.”
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Tinubu Inaugurates Naval Assets To Boost Blue Economy, Combat Maritime Crimes
In a significant move to tackle maritime crimes and enhance Nigeria’s Blue Economy, President Bola Tinubu, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, inaugurated three Nigerian Navy ships and two helicopters on Thursday.
The ceremony, held at the Naval Dockyard in Victoria Island, Lagos, marked a key event in the celebration of the Nigerian Navy’s 68th anniversary and the fifth International Maritime Conference.
The conference, themed “Promoting the Blue Economy in Africa through International Cooperation on Maritime Security,” aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 14 and Africa’s Agenda 2063. It aims to foster collaboration among African nations to address maritime security and harness the economic potential of the Blue Economy.
President Tinubu highlighted the significant economic impact of the Blue Economy, projecting a value increase to $15.5 trillion globally by 2050 and an African market projection of $405 billion by 2030.
He stressed the importance of strategic partnerships between the Nigerian Navy and other African maritime forces to combat transnational maritime threats.
Vice President Shettima emphasized the Nigerian Navy’s evolution and commitment to securing Nigeria’s maritime domain, noting the necessity of international collaboration to address complex security challenges.
He commended the Navy’s efforts in fleet recapitalization, indigenous shipbuilding, and strategic partnerships aimed at enhancing maritime security in the Gulf of Guinea.
Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Matawalle, praised the Navy’s professionalism and its role in safeguarding Nigeria’s economic interests.
He expressed optimism that the conference would yield innovative strategies to enhance maritime security and economic prosperity.
Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, underscored the transnational nature of maritime threats and the need for collective international efforts.
He highlighted ongoing regional initiatives and the Navy’s strategic plan, including the upgrade of the Hydrography Department to the National Hydrographic Agency and significant ship repair projects.
Lagos State Deputy Governor, Obafemi Hamzat, lauded the Navy’s contributions to national security and called for the recognition of personnel sacrifices.
He reiterated Lagos’ pivotal role in Nigeria’s maritime economy and the importance of supporting initiatives to secure and develop the Blue Economy.
The event also marked the start of the Regional Maritime Exercise (REMEX), involving ships from Brazil, China, Cameroon, Ghana, and Togo, further showcasing the Navy’s preparedness and the support of the Tinubu-led administration.
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Navy Seizes Bags of Smuggled Rice In Badagry, Hands Over To Customs
The Nigerian Navy Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Badagry has successfully intercepted bags of smuggled foreign parboiled rice in a significant operation against smuggling within its jurisdiction. On May 14, 2024, at approximately 2:35 AM, a patrol team intercepted several vehicles carrying the contraband, which was suspected to have been smuggled from Benin. The suspects fled upon sighting the patrol, leaving the rice behind.
Lieutenant Commander Bitrus Inuwa Zoaka, Base Operations Officer at FOB Badagry, officially handed over the seized rice to Deputy Comptroller of Customs Istifanus Musa in a formal ceremony yesterday. This action aligns with the Harmonized Standard Procedures on Arrest, Detention, and Prosecution (IISOP-AD&P) 2016.
The Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, has emphasized the Navy’s commitment to ensuring security and economic stability in the region through Operation WATER GUARD. Launched on November 9, 2023, by Rear Admiral Mustapha Bala Hassan, Flag Officer Commanding Western Naval Command, this operation aims to deny smugglers and other criminals freedom of action in the area.
Captain Bitebobo Augustus Amakiri, Commanding Officer of FOB Badagry, highlighted that these efforts are part of the CNS Strategic Directive 2023-6, which focuses on maintaining a safe operational environment in Nigeria and the Gulf of Guinea.
Deputy Comptroller of Customs Musa expressed gratitude to the Nigerian Navy for their cooperation. “This seizure is a testament to the strong working relationship between the Nigerian Navy and the Nigerian Customs Service. It sends a clear message to smugglers that they have no hiding place when government agencies collaborate,” Musa stated.
Lt. Commander Zoka, Base Operating Officer at FOB Badagry, explained that the patrol team had to act quickly when the smugglers abandoned their vehicles. “The Navy is vigilant both on land and water, ensuring there is no escape for smugglers,” he said. “Our collaboration with Customs is crucial in tackling smuggling and ensuring national security.”
The Nigerian Navy and Nigerian Customs Service reaffirmed their commitment to ongoing cooperation, enhancing patrols, and strengthening security measures to curb smuggling and other illegal activities.
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CSR: Navy Celebrates 68th Anniversary With Security And Drug Awareness Outreach In Badagry Schools
In celebration of the Nigerian Navy’s 68th anniversary and Children’s Day, the Nigerian Navy made a significant outreach to local schools in Badagry. Lt. Commander Alaba Egbayelo, representing Navy Captain BA Amakiri, Commanding Officer of the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Badagry, visited Methodist Senior High School and Topo Senior Grammar School to engage with students and promote awareness on security and drug abuse prevention.
“This initiative is part of our civil-military relationship program during Navy Week,” said Lt. Commander Egbayelo. “We aim to connect with the civilian populace, particularly the youth, to teach them security tips and the dangers of drug abuse. By doing this, we contribute to their education and help them make informed choices.”
The visit included interactive sessions where Navy officers provided vital information on personal security and the risks associated with drug abuse. The program also emphasized the importance of community vigilance and proactive measures to ensure safety.
“We aim to reach out to our host communities beyond just providing security,” added Lt. Commander Egbayelo. “This direct interaction allows us to educate the youth on critical issues, fostering a safer environment for everyone. We plan to continue these visits to more schools to broaden our impact.”
The distribution of the writing materials, which included books and other educational supplies at Topo Senior Grammar School and Methodist Senior High School Badagry emphasized the significance of promoting quality education within the community
Students expressed their gratitude for the initiative. Precious Ben-Anorue from SS2A of Topo Senior Grammar School shared her experience: “The program has enlightened me on how to protect myself both physically and mentally. The knowledge gained today will help me in many areas of my life, and I am grateful to the Nigerian Navy for this opportunity.”
Kehinde Dosu, also from SS2 at Topo Senior Grammar School, echoed similar sentiments: “I learned about the dangers of drug abuse and how to secure myself in various situations, including online safety. This program has been very informative and beneficial.”
The Nigerian Navy’s efforts highlight their commitment to community engagement and youth education, aiming to reduce drug abuse and enhance security awareness among young people.
The initiative underscores the importance of civil-military cooperation in addressing societal challenges and fostering a secure and healthy environment for future generations.
The Navy encourages community members to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activities, reinforcing the message that everyone’s cooperation is essential in maintaining safety.
