Category: Military

In a proactive display of maritime security vigilance, the patrol team of Nigerian Navy Ship Beecroft executed a successful interception and extraction operation, removing 14 stowaways from the Motor Tanker UOG CONSTANTINE at Lagos Roadstead on Friday, 15th December 2023.

Commander NNS Beecroft and Maritime Component Commander of Operation AWATSE, Commodore Kolawole Olumide Oguntuga, unveiled that prompt action was initiated based on intelligence received from the Maritime Domain Awareness Facility, the Falcon Eye Alignment. Tactical teams swiftly boarded the vessel and detected movements within the rudder compartment.

Among the apprehended stowaways, two had previously been arrested for a similar offense just a month ago, highlighting the persistent nature of such illicit activities. The decisive actions of the patrol team averted potentially life-threatening conditions for the individuals confined within the vessel’s compartment, underscoring the Nigerian Navy’s commitment to maritime safety.

The arrested individuals, hailing from various states across Nigeria, were promptly handed over to the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) in adherence to established protocols for further necessary action.

The incident further emphasizes the Nigerian Navy’s unwavering dedication to its constitutional role under the leadership of Vice Admiral EI Ogalla, the Chief of the Naval staff. This resolute stance reinforces their commitment to ensuring a secure maritime environment conducive to the nation’s economic prosperity.

A press statement released by Hammed Bukoye Oloyede, Superintendent of Customs and Public Relations Officer for the Ag. Customs Area Command of Ogun 1 Area Command, sheds light on a recent incident involving operatives of the Nigeria Customs Service.

According to the statement, on Saturday, December 16, 2023, along the Lanfewa/Enu gada axis of Ogun State, operatives from the Ogun 1 Area Command were involved in evacuating smuggled goods from two faulty vehicles used for transportation. During this operation, they encountered an attack allegedly instigated by hoodlums suspected to be working for the smugglers of the confiscated goods.

The severity of the attack, deemed as a threat to the lives of the officers, prompted a call for reinforcement. In response, the operatives defended themselves around 7:15 AM, repelling the assailants to ensure their safety. No casualties were reported, and the seized goods were safely conveyed to the Government Warehouse at Customs House in Abeokuta.

The statement emphasized the commitment of the Command, led by the Acting Customs Area Controller Ahmadu Shuaibu, to prioritize the safety of the host communities and denounced the indiscriminate use of firearms. However, it stressed that in situations posing serious threats to life, the rules of engagement dictate necessary actions for self-protection.

Expressing regret over the potential fear caused among residents and the public during the incident, the Command assured its dedication to upholding the safety of Ogun State residents while executing lawful duties. It reiterated the commitment to operating within the confines of the law and adhering to rules of engagement.

Highlighting provisions within the Nigeria Customs Service Act (NCSA) 2023, the statement underscored penalties, including a five-million-naira fine and imprisonment for five years, for obstructing, molesting, or assaulting officers on lawful duty. Additionally, Section 226 of the NCSA grants Customs operatives the authority to conduct patrols freely, relevant to their anti-smuggling operations in Ogun State.

The statement stands as an official response from the Nigeria Customs Service regarding the incident and reaffirms the commitment to maintaining lawfulness and ensuring the safety of communities in the region.

The Nigerian Navy Ship QUORRA, recently held a grand graduation ceremony, marking the successful completion of courses for a significant number of officers. Commodore Adamu Yahaya, the Commandant of NNS QUORRA, presided over the event, which saw the graduation of 100 students from two distinct courses.

In a commendable feat, a total of 55 officers successfully completed the rigorous Sub-Lieutenant Technical Course, while another 45 officers concluded the demanding Officers’ Long Course.

The ceremony was a culmination of their hard work, dedication, and commitment throughout their training at the esteemed institution.

Commandant Commodore Adamu Yahaya, in his speech, expressed immense pride and congratulated the graduates for their outstanding achievement.

He acknowledged the significance of the day, emphasizing the importance of the momentous occasion in the lives of the freshly graduated officers.

The Commandant emphasized the pivotal role played by the Nigerian Navy in shaping and nurturing these officers, highlighting the institution’s investment in honing their skills and preparing them for future assignments.

He urged the graduating officers to uphold the Navy’s core values of professionalism and integrity as they transition into their next phase of service.

Additionally, Commodore Yahaya assured the attendees of ongoing efforts to enhance various aspects within the school, such as improving teaching aids, upgrading learning environments, and catering to the welfare of instructors and staff.

Also speaking, the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla who was represented by Rear Admiral Abolaji Orederu, FOC Naval dockyard Limited underscored the profound effort invested by the officers, recognizing their sleepless nights and unwavering commitment to meeting the rigorous demands of their training. 

Highlighting the paramount importance of the maritime domain and its strategic role, Vice Admiral Ogalla emphasized the Nigerian Navy’s unwavering dedication to safeguarding the nation’s maritime territory.

He acknowledged the myriad challenges faced in executing these responsibilities and underscored the indispensable need for well-trained personnel capable of countering multifaceted threats.

Commending the officers for their enhanced competencies and specialized skills acquired during their training, he hailed their crucial roles as enforcers of maritime laws and sentinels of Nigeria’s maritime environment. Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla celebrated the officers’ growth in core competencies, aligning them with the demands of their naval duties.

Asserting the Nigerian Navy’s commitment to modernization and expansion, he lauded the officers for their world-class training standards and assured them of potential certification benefits from the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) in the future.

The ceremony also witnessed the presence of key figures, including Rear Admiral PC Nwatu, who played instrumental roles in aligning training standards with global benchmarks set by the International Maritime Organization (IMO).

The event not only marked the achievements of these 100 officers but also served as a testament to the dedication and commitment of NNS QUORRA in shaping skilled and competent officers for the Nigerian Navy. 

Under the steadfast initiative, Operation Water Guard, the Nigerian Navy Ship Beecroft has achieved a significant milestone in maritime security. In a meticulously executed interception, the Patrol Team, helmed by Commodore Kolawole Olumide Oguntuga, seized a colossal wooden vessel off Lagos Anchorage, laden with over 5,000 kilograms of suspected Cannabis Sativa on the 7th of December 2023.

The operational triumph is credited to a fusion of reliable human intelligence and the sophisticated Maritime Domain Awareness Facility, Falcon Eye Alignment. This synergistic approach showcases the Navy’s dedication to fortifying maritime security for sustained economic growth.

The interception resulted in the apprehension of two foreign suspects, identified as Mr. Emmanuel Doedcher and Mr. Godswil John Olamide, both hailing from Ghana. Alongside the suspects, the confiscated vessel and its illegal cargo were promptly handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency for further investigation and necessary legal proceedings.

This successful mission underscores the Nigerian Navy’s resolute commitment to curbing the impact of drug trafficking, recognized as a catalyst for various crimes and threats to national security.

The operation stands in alignment with Vice Admiral EI Ogalla’s Strategic Directives, emphasizing collaborative efforts with stakeholders, institutions, and government agencies to combat maritime criminal activities effectively.

The Nigeria Customs Service basketball club showcased their exceptional skill set and dominance in the African Women’s Basketball League 2023 Zone III Qualification matches, securing commendable victories in two enthralling encounters.

In Alexandria, Egypt, the Nigeria team, guided by Coach Abdulrahman Mohamed, exhibited sheer prowess, securing a convincing 57-46 victory over Universite de Douala. The team took charge early, seizing control of the first and second quarters (12-11, 20-8), establishing a commanding 13-point lead at halftime.

D’Tigress player and Team Captain, a 2023 Afrobasket winner, delivered a breathtaking performance, achieving a double-double with 20 points and 19 rebounds, accompanied by 4 assists, 4 steals, and three blocks, culminating in an impressive efficiency rating of 32. Olaoluwatomi Taiwo added 14 points and 4 rebounds to bolster the team’s success.

With an astounding display of dominance on the boards, Nigeria Customs outrebounded their opponents 62-42, showcasing superior teamwork with a 19-7 advantage in assists.

The Nigeria Customs Women’s Basketball Club continued their triumphant streak back in Abuja at the MO Arena, clinching a hard-fought victory over the MFM Basketball Club of Lagos, securing a final score of 55-49 in a closely contested match.

Captain Nkem Akarawe’s exceptional performance, marked by a back-to-back double of 16 rebounds and 15 points, played a pivotal role in the team’s success. Despite an initial resilient effort from MFM in the first quarter, Nigeria Customs maintained composure to emerge victorious.

Captain Nkem Akarawe extended gratitude to CGC Adewale Adeniyi MFR for his unwavering support and acknowledgment of the challenges faced by the club during a post-match statement.

The Nigeria Customs team now gears up to face Kenya Port Authority in a highly anticipated clash on Wednesday, aiming to maintain their winning momentum in the competition.

In a move to fortify and enhance cooperation between the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) and the Nigerian Navy, Dr. Bashir Jamoh OFR, Director-General of NIMASA, embarked on a working visit to Vice Admiral E I Ogala, the Chief of Naval Staff.

The primary aim of this visit was to bolster the existing relationship between the two entities, fostering mutual growth within the Nigerian maritime industry. Central to their discussions was the alignment of strategies to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR’s vision of establishing a Marine and Blue Economy Ministry.

A critical focus during their deliberations was the pervasive issue of illegal Unreported and Unregulated (IUU) Fishing. Both parties engaged in in-depth conversations, exploring innovative avenues to combat this challenge effectively. Their concerted efforts aim to ensure that Nigerians reap the full benefits of the abundant natural resources within the maritime industry.

The collaborative efforts between NIMASA and the Nigerian Navy signify a united front in addressing critical maritime concerns. Through their commitment to this partnership, they seek to streamline operations, tackle illicit activities, and promote sustainable practices within Nigeria’s maritime domain.

This working visit serves as a testament to the dedication of both NIMASA and the Nigerian Navy in upholding maritime security, fostering economic growth, and advancing the country’s marine and blue economy initiatives. The joint endeavors between these two vital entities demonstrate a collective resolve to propel the Nigerian maritime industry toward greater heights of prosperity and sustainability.

In a significant breakthrough against illicit maritime activities, the Nigerian Navy Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Igbokoda, Ondo State, orchestrated the arrest of the 77-meter-long Motor Tanker (MT) “VINNALARIS 1 LAGOS” on suspicion of crude oil theft. The vessel, carrying 17 crew members, was apprehended in the early hours of Thursday, December 7, 2023, at approximately 3:00 am.

The arrest was prompted by credible intelligence received by FOB Igbokoda regarding illegal crude oil siphoning activities at the EBESAN oil field, situated approximately 7 nautical miles off the coast of Awoye riverine community in Ilaje Local Government Area, Ondo State.

The swift response of FOB Igbokoda personnel led to the interception of the vessel as it was illicitly siphoning crude oil from one of the well heads at the EBESAN oil field. Upon approach, the two boats attached to the vessel attempted to flee on sighting the naval personnel, confirming suspicions of illegal activities.

Upon investigation, it was revealed that the vessel was actively involved in siphoning crude oil from both sides of the well head. The vessel, manned by 17 Nigerian crew members, possessed a storage capacity of about 15,000 metric tonnes and had already loaded approximately 500 Metric tonnes of crude oil at the time of arrest.

This apprehension underscores the Nigerian Navy’s unwavering commitment to eradicating crude oil theft and other illegal activities within Nigeria’s maritime domain. Authorities warn that perpetrators of such illegalities will face stringent measures and the full force of the law.

The Nigerian Navy urges legitimate individuals engaged in lawful maritime activities to continue their operations, while imploring the public to collaborate by promptly reporting any suspicious activities, especially in coastal communities, for swift and necessary action.

Moreover, suspicions arose regarding the involvement of Tantita Security Service (TSS) in these illegal activities, as the Awoye riverine area, adjacent to the arrest location, falls under TSS coverage. However, the Nigerian Navy dismisses these allegations raised post the vessel’s arrest as baseless and misleading.

Despite external challenges, the Nigerian Navy remains resolute in its constitutional mandate to safeguard Nigeria’s maritime environment for national economic development and prosperity, reinforcing its commitment to stamping out maritime criminalities.

Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, the Chief of Naval Staff, has officially launched 12 Comstrac System Ovation Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) and endorsed the updated Local Operating Procedure and Local Training Order.

The ceremony took place on Friday, at the Nigerian Navy’s Naval Air Base in Navy Town, Ojo.

The Chief of Training and Operations, Rear Admiral Zakariyyah Muhammad, representing the Chief of Naval Staff, conducted the commissioning.

Muhammad noted that the newly commissioned surveillance UAVs will enhance the Nigerian Navy’s air capabilities, complementing existing assets.

He added, “In an era where the nature of warfare is evolving rapidly, embracing cutting-edge technologies becomes imperative for enhancing our national security. These UAVS, with their advanced capabilities and versatility, will undoubtedly enhance our naval surveillance for furtherance of strategic capabilities. I have no doubt that this will rejig the Nigerian Navy towards better service delivery in the maritime domain of our dear Country.

Ogalla also commended the efforts of the Western Naval Command for innovative and dogged efforts towards maintaining credible maritime presence and curtailing criminalities in her Air Base

Speaking further, he disclosed that Nigerian Navy is expecting 5 more helicopters within the First Quarter of next year, 2024 which would enhance Nigerian Navy’s maritime capabilities. This would safer waters for both local and international maritime trade.

Also speaking, Alhaji Ahmed Nakura, the contractor responsible for the building of the drones, commended the Nigerian Navy for placing a high priority on securing the maritime domain, including the Gulf of Guinea.

He said, “Today is a momentous occasion as we gather here to commemorate the commissioning and delivery of 12 CTS Ovation UAVs to the Nigerian Navy.

“This marks a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to strengthen your nation’s maritime security and defence capabilities. These state-of-the art unmanned aerial vehicles represent a leap forward in your commitment to safeguarding your maritime borders and protecting your national interests.

“The Nigerian Navy has a rich history of safeguarding your coastal waters and ensuring the security and prosperity of your nation. As we commission these 12 CTS Ovation UAVs, we are not just delivering new equipment; we are ushering in a new era of maritime surveillance, reconnaissance, and defence.

“These UAVs will play a crucial role in enhancing your naval capabilities and ensuring the safety and security of your waters. In an era where maritime security is pivotal to national safety and economic stability, the role of advanced technology cannot be overstated. Nigeria’s strategic position along the Gulf of Guinea, a vital shipping route, necessitates robust and versatile maritime surveillance capabilities.”

Speaking earlier, Commodore Stephen Ega, the Navy Airwaves Commander, introduced the updated Local Operating Procedure and Local Training Order for approval.

He also commended the Chief of Naval Staff (CNS) for enabling the utilization of drones.

Ega added that the drones UAVs will complement efforts of the existing helicopters in operation.
“This occasion also provides me the opportunity to present the revised Local Operating Procedure as well as Local Training Order for adoption.

Before we proceed, I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the CNS Vice Admiral EI Ogalla for procuring the UAVs, his magnanimous support to NN Air Arm and to the Base in particular.

The commissioning of this UAV squadron represents a quantum leap in our naval operations. These advanced UAVs are force multipliers that will enhance our reconnaissance, surveillance, and maritime security capabilities of the NN fleet like never before.

The UAVs would also complement the already existing helicopters by increasing our surveillance capabilities with enhanced real time Maritime pictures,” he said.

Rear Admiral Mustapha Bala Hassan, the Flag Officer Commanding Western Naval Command, highlighted that incorporating UAVs with surface ships, aircraft, and Special Forces will enhance Maritime Domain Awareness capabilities, complementing facilities like RMAC and FALCON EYE.

“The integration of the UAVs with surface ships, aircraft and Special Forces would complement the Maritime Domain Awareness facilities such as RMAC and FALCON EYE.

“Thereby serving as force multipliers to cover blind spots in the back waters which RMAC and FALCON EYE hitherto do not adequately cover.

“The introduction of these advanced UAVs to our naval fleet underscores our commitment to embrace innovation and technology in the maritime domain.”

The ongoing Exercise EJA EXPRESSION initiated by the Nigerian Navy has demonstrated significant effectiveness, leading to the interception and capture of suspected maritime offenders.

The Nigerian Navy Ship EKULU, patrolling the Badagary axis of Lagos, intercepted and investigated two suspicious fishing trawlers, TAURARO and STARSHRIMPER 29, in the early hours of Tuesday, November 28, 2023.

Upon boarding the vessels, it was discovered that despite possessing licenses for shrimping activities, these trawlers carried substantial quantities of fish, contravening their licensing restrictions. The interception comes as part of the efforts to curb economic crimes, specifically illegal fishing, in Nigeria’s maritime waters.

Rear Admiral Mustapha Bala Hassan, Flag Officer Commanding Western Naval Command, had recently inaugurated Exercise EJA EXPRESSION. This exercise aims to enhance personnel skills in combating economic crimes, particularly the issue of illegal fishing, by reinforcing procedures to enforce fisheries laws within Nigeria’s maritime domain.

IUU (Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated) fishing poses a global threat to ocean ecosystems and sustainable fishing practices.

Furthermore, it jeopardizes economic security and strains critical natural resources essential for global food security, thereby endangering legitimate businesses.

Rear Admiral Hassan reiterated the Nigerian Navy’s zero-tolerance stance towards maritime illegalities, emphasizing the commitment to pursuing and prosecuting offenders. He urged perpetrators to desist from such activities, assuring that the Navy remains vigilant and will take swift action against those violating maritime laws.

The Chief of the Naval Staff’s Strategic Directive underscores the importance of effective ocean and maritime governance to foster a thriving Blue Economy.

The Navy’s operations aim to secure Nigeria’s maritime environment, ensuring sustainable utilization of marine resources while deterring illegal activities detrimental to the nation’s economic and ecological interests.

Commander Patricia Ochei, Command Information Officer of the Western Naval Command, highlighted the Navy’s dedication to safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime territories, reinforcing the message that illegal activities will be met with robust actions and legal consequences.

The interception of these fishing vessels exemplifies the Nigerian Navy’s commitment to upholding maritime laws, curbing illegal fishing, and promoting a sustainable and secure maritime environment for the nation’s prosperity.