Category: Maritime Sector

  • Maritime Industry Leaders Inspire Optimism With Progressive Reforms, Says Comptroller Dera Nnadi mni

    Maritime Industry Leaders Inspire Optimism With Progressive Reforms, Says Comptroller Dera Nnadi mni


    The Tin Can Island Port (TCIP) Customs Area Controller (CAC), Comptroller Dera Nnadi mni, has expressed his excitement over the significant strides achieved in the maritime industry under the leadership of key figures such as the Honourable Minister of the Blue and Marine Economy, Prince Adegboyega Oyetola CON, Managing Director of the Nigeria Ports Authority (NPA) Alhaji Bello Koko, and Comptroller General of Customs (CGC) Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR.

    According to an official statement made available to Hybrid News noted that the collaborative efforts among these leaders have resulted in tangible developments, notably the initiation of the 24-hour cargo clearance at Tin Can Island port.

    Additionally, CAC Nnadi said the improvements in port infrastructure and traffic management along port access roads have been notable achievements.

    Nnadi stressed that the Tin Can Port Command of Nigeria Customs Service has pledged full support for these initiatives aimed at positioning the Lagos ports as a competitive hub within the subregion. Consequently, he said the Command has undertaken reforms in its operational processes, including the implementation of the CGC approved WCO-Nigeria Time Release Study and automation of the Command bond system. “Moreover, training programs for officers and stakeholders are underway, with an innovative approach of inviting freight forwarder associations to facilitate sessions, enabling them to guide improvements tailored to their needs” he noted.

    While acknowledging some stakeholders’ hesitancy towards reforms, Nnadi emphasized the Command’s commitment to supporting and rewarding those willing to adapt. Efforts to encourage voluntary compliance are being instituted, aiming to establish Standard Operational Procedures for equitable operations.

    Nnadi expressed optimism that ongoing automation efforts will further enhance efficiency and address challenges like server downtime, while also urging stakeholders, including the media, to sustain and amplify positive developments in the industry.

    With these strides, the maritime industry under the visionary leadership of key figures is poised for transformative growth, setting the stage for enhanced operational efficiency and stakeholder collaboration.

  • INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY: COWA Ogun 1 Command Chapter Empowers Widows, Orphans, Less Privileged With Food Aid

    INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY: COWA Ogun 1 Command Chapter Empowers Widows, Orphans, Less Privileged With Food Aid

    In observance of International Women’s Day (IWD) on March 13, 2024, the Customs Officers Wives Association (COWA), Ogun 1 Command chapter, demonstrated solidarity with women in their community by distributing essential food items to widows, orphans, and the less privileged. The gesture aimed to commemorate the occasion while extending support to those in need.

    The distribution initiative commenced at the Command’s headquarters in Idiroko, where the association’s representatives met with Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Ahmadu Shuaibu, and his management team. Acting chairperson, Mrs. Grace Adeola Ogunesan, expressed gratitude for the fatherly support of the CAC in facilitating the procurement of food items, which included rice, noodles, and beverages, intended as palliative aid for the beneficiaries.

    In response, the CAC commended the association’s charitable efforts, recognizing the timeliness of their gesture amidst prevailing economic challenges. He stressed the importance of sustaining such acts of kindness and urged the association to continue their benevolent initiatives.

    Following the meeting, the CAC inspected the distributed items and participated in group photographs with the association members. Subsequently, the distribution commenced, with beneficiaries expressing heartfelt gratitude for the support extended to them. Notably, among the recipients were the wives of late officers who had served the Customs in active duty.

    The outreach effort exemplifies the commitment of the Customs Officers Wives Association, Ogun 1 Command chapter, to making a positive impact in their community and uplifting the lives of those facing hardships. Through their collective actions, they embody the spirit of compassion and solidarity, fostering a sense of unity and support among women and families in need.

    Mrs. Ofonime Archibong, Publicity Secretary, speaking on behalf of the COWA chairperson, highlighted the association’s dedication to service and reiterated their commitment to advancing the welfare of women and vulnerable groups within the community.

  • Commodore Adams-Aliu Assumes Duty As Navy Spokesperson

    Commodore Adams-Aliu Assumes Duty As Navy Spokesperson

    The Nigerian Navy has announced the appointment of Commodore Aiwuyor Augustine Adams-Aliu as the new Director of Naval Information and official spokesperson for the Nigerian Navy. Commodore Adams-Aliu assumes this role following the approval of his appointment by the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla Admiralty Medal.

    Commodore Adams-Aliu officially took over the duties of Director of Naval Information on Friday, 22nd March 2024, succeeding Rear Admiral Adedotun Ayo-Vaughan, who has been redeployed to Headquarters Naval Training Command as the Chief Staff Officer.

    Born on 15th December 1977 in Lagos into the family of Sir & Lady Adams Aliu, Commodore Adams-Aliu brings a wealth of experience and expertise to his new role. He is the son of a veteran journalist, Sir Adams-Aliu, which exposed him to the inner workings of the journalism profession from an early age, instilling in him a flair for public speaking and media relations.

    Commodore Adams-Aliu’s educational background includes attending Shepherd Hill Primary School and Kings College Lagos before proceeding to the Nigerian Defence Academy in 1995. He earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Chemistry in 1999 and was commissioned into the Nigerian Navy in the year 2000 as a member of the 47 Regular Course.

    Throughout his career, Commodore Adams-Aliu has undergone extensive professional training, including attending the Captain Career Course at the United States Army Infantry School, Armed Forces Command and Staff College, Jaji, and graduating from the Naval War College Nigeria and the United States Naval War College.

    With a diverse career experience that includes command duties ashore and afloat, staff duties, and training of subordinate officers, Commodore Adams-Aliu is well-equipped for his new role as the Director of Naval Information. He has previously served in various capacities, including as the Commanding Officer Forward Operating Base BADAGRY and Deputy Director Plans at Naval Headquarters.

    Commodore Adams-Aliu’s awards and decorations include the Passed Staff Course, Meritorious Service Star, United Nations Medal, Nigerian Navy Command at Sea Badge, and Distinguished Fellow of the Naval War College. He is also an associate member of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), a member of the Chartered Institute of Personnel Management (CIPM), and a member of several other professional organizations.

    Commodore Adams-Aliu is happily married to Dr. Loretta, and they are blessed with three children. The Nigerian Navy has requested the general public to render necessary support to Commodore Adams-Aliu in his new role as the spokesperson for the Nigerian Navy.

  • Nigerian Navy Launches Exercise Swift Response 2024, Deploys 7 Ships, 2 Helicopters To Enhance Maritime Safety

    Nigerian Navy Launches Exercise Swift Response 2024, Deploys 7 Ships, 2 Helicopters To Enhance Maritime Safety


    The Nigerian Navy has embarked on Exercise Swift Response 2024, deploying an impressive fleet of 7 ships and 2 helicopters to bolster maritime safety and response capabilities.

    The inauguration of Exercise Swift Response 2024 was by the Flag Officer Commanding Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral Mustapha Hassan aboard the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) KADA. The exercise aims to enhance operational readiness and tackle maritime challenges effectively.

    Addressing the gathering, Rear Admiral MD Hassan emphasized the significance of this quarterly exercise for the Western Naval Command. He highlighted the exercise’s objectives, which remain aligned with previous iterations but incorporate new elements.

    “Today, we are flagging off Swift Response. It is one of the quarterly exercises for the Western Naval Command, and the aim of the exercise this time is also in line with how it was before but with a little twist,” he stated.

    Rear Admiral Hassan outlined the key focus areas of the exercise, including shifts in communication, gunning fleet maneuvers, and other essential aspects. However, he underscored the primary emphasis on rehearsing and testing new tactics, particularly in triangulating and zeroing in on rogue vessels at sea. “The rogue vessels these days have developed their tactics, and we need to be up to speed and a step ahead of them at all times,” he emphasized.

    For the execution of Exercise Swift Response, the Western Naval Command has mobilized seven ships and two helicopters, augmenting maritime domain awareness facilities to effectively prosecute the exercises.

    With these strategic maneuvers and tactical innovations, the Nigerian Navy is poised to strengthen its capabilities in combating maritime threats and ensuring the safety and security of Nigeria’s maritime domain and the Gulf of Guinea.

    On his part, the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Ikechukwu Emmanuel Ogalla who was represented by Rear Admiral Habilla Zakaria, representing , reiterated the importance of the exercise’s objectives. He also addressed the potential risks associated with such operations, emphasizing the need for robust search and rescue capabilities.

    “We flagged off this Exercise Swift Response from the Western Naval Command,” he affirmed. “Just as the FOC rightly said, one of the cardinal points in the exercise is to see how to exercise ourselves and also to carry out the tactics of triangulating the rogue vessels at sea.

    “One of the consequences of this is that it could lead to mishaps of collision at sea, or mishaps at sea. Of course, we also have to conduct search and rescue operations,” Rear Admiral Zakaria stated.

    With a focus on enhancing search and rescue capabilities, Exercise Swift Response 2024 aims to strengthen the Nigerian Navy’s readiness to address maritime challenges effectively.

    The deployment of multiple ships and helicopters underscores the Navy’s commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime domain and ensuring the safety of all maritime activities within the region.

    This exercise represents a significant stride forward in advancing maritime safety and operational readiness, reaffirming the Nigerian Navy’s dedication to protecting the nation’s maritime interests.

  • FOB: NN Seizes 100 Bags Of Smuggled Rice And Burns 1,800 Jerrycans Of Petrol In Badagry

    FOB: NN Seizes 100 Bags Of Smuggled Rice And Burns 1,800 Jerrycans Of Petrol In Badagry


    In a recent operation, the Nigerian Navy Forward Operating Base BADAGRY has seized a significant quantity of contraband goods and burned confiscated petrol. According to Captain Bitbobo Augustus Amakiri, the Commanding Officer of the base, the operation took place following intelligence received by the patrol team.

    On Wednesday, March 13, 2024, at approximately 23:52, the patrol team conducted a cordon and search operation in Gbaji village along the Badagry Seme road. During the operation, they uncovered 100 bags of foreign parboiled rice, suspected to have been smuggled from Benin Republic, valued at N7,200,000. However, no suspects were apprehended as they fled upon sighting the patrol team. Despite searching adjoining communities, no further contraband or suspects were found.

    Subsequently, on Thursday, March 21, 2024, Lieutenant Commander Bitrus Inuwa Zoaka, the Base Operations Officer, handed over the confiscated rice to Deputy Comptroller of Customs Istifanus Datsok Musa, in accordance with standard procedures. Additionally, 1,800 jerrycans filled with petrol, estimated at N36,180,000, were burned as a deterrent against smuggling activities in Badagry and beyond.

    This operation aligns with the strategic directives set forth by Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, Chief of the Naval Staff, and Rear Admiral Mustapha Bala Hassan, Flag Officer Commanding Western Naval Command. Operation WATER GUARD, launched on November 9, 2023, aims to curtail smuggling and criminal activities in the Badagry region, ensuring both security and economic stability.

    In response to the recent interception and handover of contraband goods by the Nigerian Navy Forward Operating Base BADAGRY, the Controller of the Seme Customs Area Command, Comptroller Timi Bomodi who was represented by the Deputy Controller Enforcement, DC Istifanus Datsok Musa expressed appreciation for the collaboration between the Nigerian Navy and the Customs Service.

    DC Istifanus Datsok Musa emphasized the importance of synergy among sister agencies in combating smuggling activities.

    “We are here to receive 100 bags of rice that were seized by men of the Nigerian Navy who conducted an operation along the creeks of Gbagi within the Seme axis. This is to further enhance the existing relationship that we have with them. There is collaboration among the system agencies, where goods that are being smuggled can also be intercepted by any of the sister agencies and handed over to the appropriate agency for further investigation and possible prosecution.”

    Highlighting the detrimental effects of smuggling on the economy, Musa underscored the significance of such interceptions. “Smuggling is affecting the economy,” he stated. “With all the economic situations of the country, importation of rice is one of the banned items that is not allowed to be smuggled into the country.”

    Musa further assured that despite the absence of suspects, thorough investigations would be conducted, and the outcome would be communicated to the Nigerian Navy. This gesture not only acknowledges the Navy’s efforts but also reinforces the commitment to collaboration in combating smuggling activities.

    Also speaking, the Base Operations Officer, Lieutenant Commander Bitrus Inuwa Zoaka emphasized the longstanding collaboration between the Nigerian Navy and the Customs Service.

    Speaking alongside Comptroller Timi Bomodi, representing the Comptroller Seme Customs Area Command, Zoaka reiterated the importance of synergy among sister agencies in combating smuggling activities.

    Zoaka clarified, “We have a good relationship with the Nigerian Customs. However, these rice were seized or intercepted by our force patrol team, and we are not the best sister force to handle this rice. As directed by the Chief of Naval Staff to the FOC Western Naval Command, my Commanding Officer, Captain Bitebobo Amakiri, instructed us to hand over this rice to the appropriate authority for further investigation.”

    Highlighting the ongoing collaboration between the Navy and Customs, Zoaka emphasized the need to maintain this synergy. “The synergy has been ongoing for long; it is not just a one-off practice, and we want to keep it continually. That is why we have called them today to come and take what belongs to them.”

    Regarding the absence of arrests, Zoaka explained, “There is no arrest because the moment they saw us, they all fled, knowing they would be arrested. This occurred at 23:59 in Gbaji Along Seme border.”

    This coordinated effort between the Nigerian Navy and Customs Service underscores their commitment to combating smuggling activities and maintaining security along Nigeria’s borders.

  • Ogun Customs Partners NGO Partners To Provide Educational Support To Primary School Pupils

    Ogun Customs Partners NGO Partners To Provide Educational Support To Primary School Pupils


    In a bid to enhance educational opportunities for primary school pupils in Ipokia Local Government Area (ILGA) of Ogun State, the Nigeria Customs Service, Ogun 1 Area Command, in collaboration with Teach for Nigeria, a Non-Governmental Organization (NGO), has provided educational support to 100 pupils from five different schools in the region.

    The initiative, known as the Cloth a Child Initiative, was spearheaded by Teach for Nigeria members Mrs. Akanbi Olutoyosi, Mr. Mathew Emmanuel, and Mrs. Obot Aniebietabasi, who approached the Command seeking support. The program aimed to address the challenge of tattered school uniforms affecting the studies and psychological well-being of some pupils.

    Identifying 20 pupils from each of the selected schools for urgent attention, the Command expanded the scope of the initiative as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). Alongside providing complete sets of uniforms and socks, the Command included writing materials such as books, stationery, chalks, and whiteboard markers for the schools to facilitate teaching.

    During the presentation ceremony held at IPLG School I & II Idiroko on Wednesday, March 20, 2024, the Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Ahmadu Shuaibu, represented by Deputy Comptroller Administration DC Charles Ogunesan, congratulated the beneficiaries and urged parents to prioritize their children’s education and well-being.

    Alhaja Oduntan Ireti, the Ipokia Local Government Education Secretary, commended the initiative and highlighted the significant role of teachers in shaping learners’ lives. She lauded the collaborative efforts of the NCS and the NGO in uplifting the learning conditions of the pupils.

    Mr. Bankole Joseph, the Education Officer, expressed gratitude to Ogun I Command and encouraged sustained synergy with the education board. He commended the NGO for championing the initiative and urged them to continue their efforts.

    Miss Hunnesi Florence, a primary 5 pupil, expressed appreciation on behalf of the beneficiaries for the support received. Mr. Babatunde Atteh, senior coach of the NGO, thanked the Command for its support and congratulated the beneficiaries on the success of the initiative.

    Parents of the beneficiaries expressed sincere appreciation to the Nigeria Customs Service and the NGO for their support. The event was well-attended by the management team of Ogun 1 Command, representatives of the Department of State Security, members of the education board, head teachers, parents, Idiroko youths, and other dignitaries.

    The educational support initiative underscores the commitment of the Nigeria Customs Service and partnering organizations to promote access to quality education and improve learning conditions for pupils in underserved communities.

  • Tin-Can: NCS Seizes 11 Rifles, 6 Pistols, Ammunition, Drugs Worth Billions of Naira

    Tin-Can: NCS Seizes 11 Rifles, 6 Pistols, Ammunition, Drugs Worth Billions of Naira


    The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Tin-Can Island Customs Command, has made significant seizures of firearms, drugs, and ammunition at the Tin-Can Island Port since January 2024, according to an announcement made on Friday.

    Speaking to reporters in Lagos, Comptroller Dera Nnadi, the Customs Area Controller of Tin-Can Customs Command, disclosed that a total of 11 rifles, six pistols, and a substantial quantity of ammunition were intercepted from different containers at the port.

    Nnadi emphasized that due to ongoing investigations, the source of the arms and ammunition would not be disclosed at this time.

    Highlighting the success of the command’s anti-smuggling efforts, Nnadi stated, “Our collaboration with partner agencies in the area of enforcement has yielded significant results.” He listed the seized firearms, including various rifles and pistols found in different containers imported into the country at various times.

    “In addition to the firearms seizures, we also intercepted psychotropic substances, with the assistance of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA),” Nnadi added. “Several kilograms of Cannabis Indica and 23 packages containing 23 kilograms of Heroin were confiscated through our joint efforts.”

    The Customs Area Controller reiterated the commitment of the Federal Government to ensuring the safety and security of the nation. He emphasized that the intercepted items were intended for nefarious activities, including support for insurgents and kidnapping, posing significant threats to national security.

    Switching to revenue generation, Nnadi reported that the Tin-Can Customs Command had generated a total revenue of N240,302,000,000.00 from January to March 15, 2024. This revenue exceeded the monthly target of N94,000,000,000.00, surpassing January’s target by 107% and February’s by 141%.

    Nnadi refrained from providing the percentage for March, noting that the month was still in progress. The impressive revenue figures reflect the command’s commitment to meeting and exceeding its revenue targets, contributing to the nation’s economic stability.

    The Customs Area Controller concluded by expressing appreciation for the collaborative efforts of all stakeholders in achieving these significant milestones.

    This report underscores the vigilance and effectiveness of the Nigeria Customs Service in safeguarding the nation’s borders and combating illicit activities.

  • Customs At Idiroko Make Seizures of Ammunition, Cannabis Sativa, Other Contrabands Worth Over N557 Million

    Customs At Idiroko Make Seizures of Ammunition, Cannabis Sativa, Other Contrabands Worth Over N557 Million


    In a significant breakthrough in its ongoing efforts to combat smuggling activities, the Ogun 1 Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service has intercepted a cache of life-threatening ammunition, harmful substances, and other prohibited items.

    The Customs Area Controller (CAC), Comptroller Ahmadu Shuaibu, disclosed this during a press briefing held at the Command’s headquarters in Idiroko on Friday, March 15, 2024.

    According to Comptroller Shuaibu, the seizure occurred on Thursday, March 14, 2024, during an anti-smuggling operation along the border line. The Command’s operatives intercepted smuggled ammunition totaling 940 rounds of live ammunition, cleverly concealed within sacks of cassava flakes, locally known as garri.

    Detailing the operation, Comptroller Shuaibu revealed that the Command had been tracking the smuggled items for over two weeks, originating from the Republic of Benin, before they were eventually smuggled into the country. Despite the surveillance and security measures implemented by the smugglers, the Command’s superior security network facilitated the seizure of the items, although the suspects managed to evade arrest by abandoning the contraband.

    In addition to the ammunition seizure, the Command also confiscated 123 sacks and 3,172 parcels of cannabis sativa (Indian Hemp), 380 pieces of donkey skin, 304 bales of used clothes, and 910 cartons of frozen poultry products. These seizures were made at various strategic locations across Ogun State through the Command’s intelligence network and 24-hour patrol and anti-smuggling activities. The total Duty Paid Value (DPV) of the seized items amounted to N557,120,828.00.

    Comptroller Shuaibu reiterated the Command’s commitment to safeguarding lives and properties, highlighting its zero-casualty operations as a significant achievement. He warned recalcitrant smugglers of impending consequences, emphasizing that their days are numbered, and they will face the full wrath of the law.

    Furthermore, he appealed to patriotic Nigerians to collaborate with the Command in its fight against smuggling, stressing the grave threats posed by contraband to national security. Comptroller Shuaibu also provided an update on the Command’s revenue generation efforts, reporting a total revenue of N24,283,788 generated from January to date.

    In conclusion, Comptroller Shuaibu expressed gratitude to the Customs management team, gallant operatives, Customs Intelligence Unit, Customs Police Unit, sister agencies, stakeholders, and the press for their unwavering support and professionalism in enhancing the Command’s operations.

  • REAR ADMIRAL PATRICK NWATU’S LEGACY: Transformative Leadership Marks A Decade At The Helm Of Naval Training Command

    REAR ADMIRAL PATRICK NWATU’S LEGACY: Transformative Leadership Marks A Decade At The Helm Of Naval Training Command


    In a heartfelt valedictory speech during the farewell parade at the Naval Training Command on Thursday, February 29, 2024, Rear Admiral Patrick Chibueze Nwatu, the 38th Flag Officer Commanding (FOC), expressed gratitude for the rare privilege of leading the largest command in the Nigerian Navy for the past 10 months.

    Acknowledging the significance of the command’s oversight of professional training schools and colleges, Rear Admiral Nwatu emphasized the transformative journey embarked upon since assuming office in April 2023.

    He outlined his command philosophy, focusing on realistic training, technology optimization, and the certification of professional courses to enhance the capabilities of officers and ratings in facing national challenges.

    During his tenure, Rear Admiral Nwatu prioritized a holistic review of the Navy’s training policy, introducing initiatives like practical sailing in curricula to improve professional competences.

    He highlighted the accreditation of various courses, amendments to curricula, and efforts to meet statutory requirements, ensuring that Nigerian Navy graduates compete globally.

    Technology penetration in Nigeria Navy professional training was also a key focus, with initiatives such as reactivating the NAVTRAC E-Library and Nigerian Navy Ship QUORRA ECDIS simulator.

    The introduction of consequence management and recognition for achievements aimed to foster discipline and excellence within the command.

    Rear Admiral Nwatu commended the NNPRS, NNLC, NNCAF, and NNCHS for their accreditation efforts, with a hopeful outlook for NNCETT to become a full-fledged college of education.

    The speech also highlighted infrastructural developments, including the inaugural NAVTRAC games and projects funded by the Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla.

    Expressing gratitude to sister services, security agencies, and maritime stakeholders for cooperation, Rear Admiral Nwatu credited the collective efforts of commanders, commandants, and principal staff for the achievements during his tenure.

    He urged continued support for his successor, Rear Admiral Istifanus Albara, and encouraged NAVTRAC staff and students to contribute to the success of the new FOC.

    In a touching moment, Rear Admiral Nwatu thanked his wife, Mrs. Adarenma Nwatu, for her unwavering support, and acknowledged the support of NOWA/NARAWA, NAVTRAC Command.

    The speech concluded with appreciation for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu through the CNS, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, and a wish for God’s grace in his new responsibilities.

    As Rear Admiral Nwatu bows out, the Naval Training Command looks to the future, building upon the foundation laid during his tenure for a continued pursuit of excellence in professional training.

  • Rear Admiral Ayodeji Olugbode Pioneers Nigeria’s Hydrographic Advancement, Maritime Growth

    Rear Admiral Ayodeji Olugbode Pioneers Nigeria’s Hydrographic Advancement, Maritime Growth


    In a commendable display of leadership, Rear Admiral Ayodeji Olumide Olugbode has been steering the course as the Hydrographer of the Nigerian Navy and the President of the Nigerian Hydrographic Society (NHS). Boasting double degrees in Physics and Hydrography, along with Masters in Hydrography and Strategic Studies, Rear Admiral Olugbode has exemplified expertise in strategic leadership, digital transformation, and change management.

    Since assuming office in June 2023, he has actively enhanced Nigeria’s hydrographic capabilities, contributing to maritime safety and security, thereby fueling the nation’s economic growth. Under his guidance, the Nigerian Navy Hydrographic Office (NNHO) has played a pivotal role in conducting hydrographic operations, collaborating with maritime stakeholders, and contributing significant bathymetric data to the global Seabed 2030 Project.

    Notably, Rear Admiral Olugbode has elevated the profile of the NHS, advocating for hydrography in Nigeria and the wider Gulf of Guinea region. His commitment to the Blue Economy is evident through active participation in discussions and initiatives to harness Nigeria’s maritime sector potential.

    The senior officer’s emphasis on collaboration has resulted in strengthened ties with institutions like the University of Lagos, Shell Companies in Nigeria, and the West African Gas Pipeline Company. These partnerships focus on capacity building, research and development, and accurate representation of navigational products.

    In a groundbreaking move, the NNHO, led by Rear Admiral Olugbode, initiated talks with international scientists and researchers to conduct oceanographic surveys in the Gulf of Guinea. The aim is to address data shortages, understand oceanographic phenomena, and assess the scientific impacts of climate change on marine biodiversity.

    Rear Admiral Olugbode’s commitment extends beyond professional realms, as demonstrated by sponsoring the Hydrographer’s Fishing Competition to promote aqua tourism, aqua culture, and sustainable fishing practices.

    With an illustrious career, numerous commendations, and a relentless pursuit of professional development, Rear Admiral Ayodeji Olugbode stands as a beacon of excellence. His multifaceted approach encompasses leadership positions, educational achievements, and a keen focus on advancing Nigeria’s maritime capabilities for national prosperity.

    Supported by Vice Admiral Ikechukwu Ogalla, Chief of the Naval Staff, Rear Admiral Olugbode continues to chart the course for Nigeria’s hydrography, firmly anchored in the belief that the nation’s maritime riches hold the key to economic growth and prosperity.
    Source: Thisday Newspaper

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