Category: Military

In a swift and proactive operation, the Nigerian Navy Ship Beecroft has successfully intercepted several medium-sized wooden boats believed to be transporting controlled substances into Lagos State.

According to an official statement signed by the Base Information Officer, Sub Lieutenant HA Collins the operation was based on credible intelligence gathered using the state-of-the-art Maritime Domain Awareness System, Falcon Eye Alignment.

The statement noted that upon reaching the designated areas, including Iworo, Ibeshe, and Badagry in Lagos State, NNS Beecroft patrol squads discovered the wooden boats laden with approximately 40 kilograms each of 66 bags suspected to contain Cannabis Sativa.

Although the individuals responsible for this illicit activity managed to evade capture upon sighting the naval patrol team, the confiscated items have been handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for further investigation and appropriate action.

The Base Information Officer stressed that this successful interception highlights the Nigerian Navy’s unwavering commitment and determination under the leadership of Vice Admiral EI Ogalla to combat all forms of illegal activities and create a conducive environment for legitimate businesses to flourish, ultimately contributing to the economic prosperity of the nation.

He however called on the public to actively support the ongoing campaign against drug traffickers by providing relevant information to help eradicate this menace. This effort aligns with Vice Admiral EI Ogalla’s vision to curb illicit activities, enhance maritime domain security, and uphold the rule of law.

In a remarkable display of compassion and community engagement, the Naval Officers Wives Association (NOWA) Naval Training Command (NAVTRAC) Chapter has unveiled a groundbreaking medical outreach program in Otta, Ogun State. 

The event, graced by the presence of esteemed guests, marked a significant chapter in NOWA’s dedication to improving the lives of the less privileged in society.

Addressing the gathering, the NOWA NAVTRAC Chapter Chairperson, Mrs. Adarema Nwatu emphasized the significance of NOWA’s decision to hold this year’s medical outreach in Otta, given its proximity to the Nigerian Navy School of Music and as a testament to their commitment to strengthening civil-military relations with the Ota community.

She noted that the medical Rhapsody Outreach, which stands out for its uniqueness, aims not only to provide medical assistance to those in need but also to educate the community about various health issues.  

According to Nwatu, the importance of early detection and treatment of illnesses, highlighting that sometimes individuals are unaware of existing health concerns. To address this, she said health talks and medical checks will be an integral part of this year’s outreach.

“This year medical rhapsody outreach is a unique one as we intend to also have health talks and medical checks because often times we discover illness that even individuals within the community  are not aware of and we intend to start early treatment as well as to ensure that we reduce mortality of individuals within the society and if there is instance of ailments or illness that can be spread communally the doctor will teach you or explain to you so that you will be aware of  it. 

“So you are encouraged to go for medical checks this will enable you to identify and deal with any medical issues. We would be carrying out different medical checks such as eyes test, blood pressure, vital signs checks and also take complains of everybody present here as well as distribution of palliatives to members of your community” Nwatu noted.

According to the Chairperson who is the wife of the Flag Officer Commanding (FOC) NAVTRAC, Rear Admiral Patrick Nwatu noted that the medical checks will encompass a range of vital health indicators, including eye tests, blood pressure assessments, and vital signs checks.

She informed that community members will have the opportunity to voice their health concerns during the event, ensuring that a comprehensive approach to healthcare is maintained.

The event also featured the distribution of palliatives to members of the Otta community, further underlining NOWA’s commitment to alleviating the hardships faced by those in need.

The NOWA NAVTRAC Chairperson expressed her heartfelt gratitude to the Flag Officer Commanding NAVTRAC and His Royal Majesty, Oba Professor Adeyemi Abdukadri Obalange as well as all the sponsors and supporters who made this noble gesture possible. 

On his part, His Royal Majesty, Oba (Prof) Adeyemi Abdulkabir Obalanlege, Lanlege II, Arole Iganmode, Olota of Ota, Awori Kingdom, recognized the significance of the medical outreach program in identifying and addressing health concerns within the community.

He emphasized that the Navy’s efforts had a direct and positive impact on the lives of Otta residents, further strengthening the bond between the military and the civilian population.

The Olota of Otta’s generously donated a piece of land to the Nigerian Navy and also the construction of an E-Library facility that will serve the community and foster greater collaboration between the Navy and Otta residents.

The E-Library will not only provide access to a wealth of knowledge but also serve as a symbol of unity and mutual support.

His Royal Majesty, Oba Adeyemi Abdulkabir Obalanlege, extended his appreciation to the leadership of the Nigerian Navy, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla for the Medical Rhapsody Outreach in Otta.

In a heartfelt statement, he commended the Navy for their dedication to the welfare of the community, particularly their commitment to improving the security, healthcare and the overall well-being of the less privileged in Otta.

In his words: “I welcome the NOWA NAVTRAC on their visit to the Olota’s Palace and we thank them for the medical Rhapsody that is going on here at the Olota’s palace.

“We see the Nigerian Navy as part of our community and as Brothers and Sisters that is why we relate very well. We do not see the Navy personnel as an outsider but part of the community and that is what this relationship has brought to our community.

“My donation of land to the Nigerian Navy is borne out of the fact that we need to encourage the Nigerian Navy and motivate them inspite of the limited resources from the government. I think we the citizens of Nigeria also need to contribute to our military because I dont believe the government can do it alone.

“We are building an E-Library where in this era of shortage of books to equip any of our young ones such as students or those from other communities can come around and access any book or document thatvis available worldwide. This is part of technological empowerment and capacity development for our young people” Oba Obalanlege noted.

In a highly commendable operation conducted on September 27, 2023, the patrol team of the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) BEECROFT successfully apprehended six individuals posing as Nigerian Navy personnel, engaging in fraudulent activities within their jurisdiction.

Acting on timely intelligence, at approximately 1530 local time on the aforementioned date, NNS BEECROFT patrol team carried out a swift raid at a location situated on Akabueze Street, Bashorun, Ajah, Lagos State.

The operation was in response to growing suspicions of fraudulent activities being orchestrated by these impostors who had been impersonating Nigerian Navy personnel, involving themselves in illicit activities such as extortion and intimidation of residents, among other unlawful acts.

The raid at Akabueze Street resulted in the detention of six impostors who have been identified as Mr. Sylvester Chukwuedo, Mr. Oludipe Rotimi, Mr. Emmanuel Chukwuedo, Mr. Leonard Okonye, Mr. Dominic Nwabueze, and Mrs. Akinola Abidemi. Additionally, the operation led to the confiscation of two Toyota Hilux vehicles, counterfeit Nigerian Navy identification cards, and related documents.

Crucially, the seized vehicles, suspects, and recovered evidence have been handed over to the appropriate authorities for further investigation and subsequent legal action.

Under the vigilant leadership of Vice Admiral EI Ogalla, the Nigerian Navy remains steadfast in its commitment to eradicating all forms of illegal activities and protecting law-abiding citizens from falling victim to the schemes of unpatriotic individuals.

The Naval Base BEECROFT continues to uphold the law, ensuring the safety and security of the public, which is indispensable for the economic prosperity of the nation.

The Nigerian Navy urges citizens to maintain vigilance and promptly report any suspicious activities to the appropriate authorities. Such collective efforts are vital in safeguarding the public from potential scams and fraudulent activities.

The Ogun II Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) says it generated N14.650 billion from excise duty between January and August, 2023.

The outgone Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Ahmadu Shuaibu made this known after handing over leadership of the Command to the newly redeployed Controller, Comptroller Adebisi Alade at the Command’s headquarters on Wednesday, September 13, 2023.

Giving a breakdown of the revenue collection, Compt. Shuaibu said: “The command generated N2.259 billion in January, N1.301 billion in February; N2.336 billion in March, N1.596 billion in April and N1.766 billion in May. “In June, N898 million was generated while N1.857 billion and N2.634 billion were generated in July and August, 2023.”

Shuaibu noted that the feat was achieved because of stakeholders paid their excise duties as at when due despite the economic realities.

He explained: “Today marks another milestone in our career. This meeting cannot be possible without the contribution of our stakeholders and officers. Our contribution since we assumed leadership are modest. It’s not easy to collect revenue and we have deep respect and regard for our stakeholders.

“However, inspite of the economic realities you have paid your duty as at when it’s time and you pay accordingly. I am elated to tell you that you have done well eventhough the business environment is not easy, you pay taxes to state, local government and Customs. The template is set, no need for fear and anxiety especially with officers and stakeholders so if we can’t it, we should maintain status quo”.

On his part, the newly redeployed Controller, Compt. Alade promised to follow the footstep of his predecessor to take the command to greater height.

According to him, trade facilitation, production, ease of doing business, as well as the ease of movement will be prioritise under his leadership; adding that he will reward hardworking officers.

He said: “As long that there is production and for Naira to rise, there must be production, we are here to help you so production and trade are related. We know the law and we won’t violate it but we will administer the law to facilitate trade.

“As long there is production, Naira will rise. I promise to do my best and you should expect the best from you.

Compt. Alade continued: “I promise you amiable, considerate and welfarist leadership. I expect absolute loyalty. Also, revenue target is a fear and for the first time, revenue target is before me and this target is for all of us. I have the carrot and stick and I believe there are lot of benefits in using the carrot. I promise able leadership.

“The revenue must not drop. Please let’s do our work deligently because this is a revenue command and when we do our work diligently in Excise command, revenue will come. So, let’s work harder so that our revenue will beat that of the former Comptroller”.

Hybrid News reports that the Ogun II command is saddled with the responsibilities of enforcing and regulating all Excise (industries under Excise control), Free Trade Zone and Parcel Post related activities in Ogun State.

The Nigerian Navy’s Forward Operating Base in Badagry, on Tuesday, transferred custody of one suspect along with 13 sacks of cannabis sativa valued at N5,500,000 to the National Drugs Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in the same locality.

Navy Captain Adams Aliu, the Commanding Officer of the Forward Operating Base in Badagry, provided details regarding the arrest. He indicated that the items were apprehended on August 24 and 27 at separate locations within the Badagry area.

“On Aug.24, at about 10.00.p.m, the Base quick response team acting on intelligent report raided some hideout at Ashipa, in Seme border.

“We discovered a particular building where cannabis sativa is being brought in from Benin Republic and then distributed.

“One suspect was arrested with four sacks of cannabis sativa,” he said.

Adams-Aliu stated that on Aug.27, the team apprehended 9 sacks of cannabis sativa valued at N5m.

“Another different raid on Aug.27 at about 2.30.p.m., the team seized another 9 sacks of cannabis sativa at a place called Akoro beach near Seme border.

“On sighting us, they fled but we were able to recover the cannabis sativa. The hard drugs were smuggled into the country from Benin Republic.

“No suspect was arrested because they ran away,” he said.

He mentioned that the combined value of the confiscated items was N5,500,000.

Addressing the gathering as he handed over the responsibility to Chief Superintendent of Narcotics Alli Gambo, stationed at Badagry Marine, Adams-Aliu stated that this action was in accordance with the Nigerian Navy’s three-fold approach.

The commanding officer further explained that this approach encompasses surveillance, responsive initiatives, and law enforcement.

“Our response initiative is what led to this arrest, why we are here today, which means we are in third phase of action.

“This is handing over of the suspect and the arrested items to NDLEA for them to take over the case.

“The Commanding Officer recalled that after the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla was appointed in June, 2023, he came out with his strategic directive.

“CNS strategic directive no.6 of 2023, paragraph 9, states clearly that the strategic end-state of Nigeria Navy operations is to ensure a safe and secure maritime environment.

“It is not possible that criminals will have safe passage within Nigeria waters. This is a warning to all criminal element thinking that Nigeria waters can be for criminal activities,” he said.

Upon receiving the exhibit, Ali Gambo provided assurance that the Agency would thoroughly investigate the matter to uncover the true owner of the items. He emphasized that the results of the investigation would ascertain the impact of the exhibit.

The suspect, Mr. Wasiu Taofeek, explained that he turned to trafficking hard drugs after his house was consumed by fire and he found himself unable to provide for his family.

He made an earnest appeal, expressing his commitment to abandoning the drug trade if granted forgiveness.

Taofeek explicitly claimed ownership of the cannabis sativa.

Five stowaways were apprehended aboard the ship MSC MARTHA as a consequence of a remarkable operation by the Nigerian Navy’s NNS BEECROFT patrol unit.

Following a trustworthy tip-off, the operation was conducted on August 26, 2023, at approximately 2350 hours.

The five stowaways are named as Christian Joseph (25), Effiong Okon (44), Ayewuni Daniel (27), Ajagboma Asiko (29), and Adebanjo Ayewumi (23).

While they were attempting to smuggle the vessel out of the country, they were apprehended close to the Lagos anchorage.

They were found to be in possession of three mobile phones, some personal items, and N7,900 in cash.

These seized objects are currently in guardianship as proof in the ongoing inquiry.

The Navy’s commitment to preserving the security and integrity of the nation’s maritime borders is demonstrated by the NNS BEECROFT patrol team’s prompt and effective response. Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla is the Chief of the Naval Staff.

The discovered stowaways are being held in our care while we work with the right authorities to ensure that the proper legal actions are taken.