Category: Military

  • Effective Deployment, Operational Status Achieved For Deep Blue Assets, Managed By Project Team – Jamoh

    Effective Deployment, Operational Status Achieved For Deep Blue Assets, Managed By Project Team – Jamoh

    The Nigerian Navy has announced the deployment of assets procured by the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) through the Integrated National Security and Waterways Protection Infrastructure, commonly referred to as the Deep Blue project.

    These assets have been strategically positioned across the South West, Central, and Eastern Zonal operations, effectively reinforcing patrols within the Nigerian maritime expanse.

    Commodore Victor Choji, the Acting Fleet Commander of the Western Naval Command and Commander of the Deep Blue Project, conveyed this update during an official visit by Rear Admiral Mohammed Abdullahi, the Flag Officer Commanding (FOC) of the Western Naval Command, to NIMASA’s management. Commodore Choji also emphasized that Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, the Chief of Naval Staff, leads the Nigerian Navy with unwavering dedication to the successful realization of the Deep Blue Project.

    According to him, “The assets have already been well deployed. As we speak 5 armoured vehicles are deployed in Port Harcourt and 3 in Bonny.”

    Continuing his remarks, he mentioned that the project team had introduced an additional 10 vehicles and a drone unit to the Bonny area, along with a complement of personnel. He alluded to the fact that during the recent national elections, the mere existence of the deep blue assets in those regions yielded the necessary influence that was needed.

    Choji added that within the Central Zone Command, the Navy had dispatched three sets of specialized mission components to the brass area, as well as two interceptor boats carrying the special intervention force elements within the central command.

    “In Lagos, just last week, we got a directive that there is a requirement and we are about to deploy 2 interceptor boats to support the operations that are ongoing in Lagos Inland waters. I can state categorically that we have the full backing of the Nigerian Navy for the success of the Deep Blue Project,” he noted.

    Speaking, Director General of NIMASA, Dr. Bashir Jamoh, pointed out that the assets procured by the Agency as part of the Deep Blue Project are under the management of a specialized project group led by a Commodore from the Nigerian Navy. He reiterated the Agency’s dedication to fostering a strong partnership with the Nigerian Navy, aiming to contribute to the economic advancement of the nation.

    “I believe that the Agency and the Nigerian Navy have a lot in common to ensure safety and security in the nation’s waters. While the Nigerian Navy takes care of the kinetic operations, NIMASA concentrates on non-kinetic operations, and the two will have to go hand in hand if we must succeed. If you look at the armed forces act, the Nigerian Navy has a role to play in ensuring the implementation and enforcement of the NIMASA and Customs & Excise act”, he noted.

    Jamoh has articulated NIMASA’s aspiration to maximize returns on the investments made and still being made in the Deep Blue Project. He additionally highlighted that the Agency maintains consistent communication with the National Assembly.

    This communication aims to ensure that the nation’s maritime laws, particularly the Merchant Shipping Act, are updated appropriately. This update would include incorporating robust punitive measures within the legal framework to effectively discourage criminal activities within Nigerian waters.

    In acknowledging the commendable efforts of the Nigerian Navy in tracing vessels that deactivate their Automatic Identification System (AIS) within Nigerian waters, Dr Jamoh urged for enhanced collaboration among all governmental bodies within the maritime sector.

    He specifically emphasized the importance of synergizing efforts between the Nigerian Navy and the maritime division of the Nigerian Police. This collaborative approach is crucial in promptly addressing the recent instances of criminal activities occurring in the vicinity of the Lagos anchorage and inland waterways.

  • Nigerian Army Troops Destroy Illegal Refinery In Anti-Oil Theft Operation

    Nigerian Army Troops Destroy Illegal Refinery In Anti-Oil Theft Operation


    Troops of 6 Division Nigerian Army have continued to crack down on saboteurs of Nigeria’s oil sector in South South Nigeria as it destroyed massive illegal refinery in Delta State.

    A statement signed by Brigadier General Onyema Nwachukwu, Director Army Public Relations revealed that troops conducting anti oil theft operations, responding to actionable intelligence on Aug. 23 swooped on an illegal oil refinery site in the general area of Ogbokoko and Atu in Warri South Local Government Area of Delta State. 

    “During the operations, troops destroyed 8 active Ovens used for illegal refining of stolen crude oil, 14 storage reservoirs containing stolen crude oil estimated  at 200,000 litres and 90,000 litres of locally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO). 

    “The oil thieves fled the scene, on sighting the advancement of troops. The Illegal refining site was destroyed in-situ in line with extant guidelines of Operation Delta Safe. Investigation is ongoing to arrest the fleeing criminals.

    “Members of the public are please implored to report any suspected act of sabotage or criminality to security agencies to enhance ongoing operations to curb  economic sabotage in the country,” it read.

  • NIMASA Fostering Growth Of Nigerian Seafarers Through Cabotage Implementation

    NIMASA Fostering Growth Of Nigerian Seafarers Through Cabotage Implementation

    Central to the Cabotage regime is the principle of enhancing local involvement in the crewing of vessels operating within Nigerian waters.

    NIMASA has been dedicated to ensuring that Nigerian seafarers are placed on board Cabotage vessels, aligning with its role in placements and the provisions of the Cabotage Act of 2003.

    A significant stride has been made in this regard, as applications for Cabotage crew placements now come with the stipulation that all foreign crew, particularly Ratings on vessels, must be replaced with Nigerian seafarers or cadets within a period of two to three weeks of commencing operations. As a result, a total of 539 Nigerian seafarers have been recommended for such replacements in the initial quarter of 2023.

    Under the leadership of Dr. Bashir Jamoh, NIMASA, in the current administration, achieved the placement of 3,705 seafarers on Cabotage vessels in 2021, followed by 7,238 seafarers in 2022, and an additional 1,013 seafarers from January to July 2023. This cumulative effort has led to the successful placement of 11,956 Nigerian seafarers on Cabotage vessels between January 2021 and July 2023.

    Streamlining administrative processes, NIMASA has digitized the registration and documentation procedures. The establishment of the e-registration platform facilitates the online and real-time registration of maritime labor participants such as seafarers, dockworkers, maritime labor employers (including shipping companies, manning/crewing agents, stevedoring companies, and terminal operators), as well as various operators in the maritime sector. This digitalization aims to enhance efficiency and accuracy while also serving as a valuable database for statistical analysis, national planning, policy formulation, and research purposes. The intention is to host this e-registration platform on the NIMASA website.

    In addition, the years 2021 and 2022 saw the registration of 3,219 and 3,619 seafarers, respectively, with 1,176 registrations recorded from January to July 2023. In the same timeframe, the issuance of MLC, 2006 certificates amounted to 24 in 2021, 49 in 2022, and 63 from January to July 2023. Consequently, a total of 8,014 seafarers were registered from 2021 to 2023 (January to July), with 136 MLC, 2006 certificates issued after inspections during the same period.

    Furthermore, a total of 65 stevedoring companies, 26 terminal/jetty operators, and 1,395 dockworkers were duly registered between 2021 and 2023 (January to July).

    In 2008, NIMASA initiated the Nigerian Seafarers Development Programme (NSDP) with the primary objective of training Nigerian youths as seafarers and Naval Architects, contributing to the enhancement of maritime capacity. This program was designed to provide comprehensive education up to degree level in Marine Engineering, Nautical Sciences, and Naval Architecture at select Maritime Training Institutions (MTIs) abroad.

    The aim was to equip beneficiaries with the skills to effectively compete in the global maritime industry and contribute to the growth of Nigeria’s maritime sector.

    Notably, in December 2022, NIMASA sent off 235 Nigerian youths to India and Greece as Batch B of a total of 435 young Nigerians to be trained under the NSDP as Licensed Deck and Engine Officers, including Naval Architects. This batch followed an earlier sponsorship of 200 individuals under Batch A.

    During this initiative, NIMASA Director-General Dr. Bashir Jamoh, highlighted the importance of mutual recognition of Certificate of Competency (CoC) in collaboration with countries that support this understanding, which influenced the selection of training institutes for beneficiaries. It’s also noteworthy that NIMASA has succeeded in providing “seatime” experience for all NSDP beneficiaries, laying the foundation for them to earn foreign currencies and contribute to the nation’s remittances.

  • BEECROFT: Nigerian Navy Foils Illicit Pipeline Activities, Safeguards Critical NNPCL Facility

    BEECROFT: Nigerian Navy Foils Illicit Pipeline Activities, Safeguards Critical NNPCL Facility



    In an impressive show of vigilance and commitment, the Nigerian Navy’s NNS BEECROFT patrol team led by its Commander, Commodore Kolawale Oguntuga has effectively thwarted the efforts of vandals and economic disruptors to unlawfully drain valuable products from pipelines.

    The incident transpired at the Single Buoy Mooring (SBM) situated offshore near Atlas Cove in Lagos, a pivotal installation overseen by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL). This facility serves as a key point for vessels to unload refined products, which are then distributed for public consumption.

    As a result of the timely intervention, ten suspects have been apprehended and subsequently handed over to the NSCDC for thorough investigation and eventual prosecution. The SBM’s intricate structure demands meticulous attention due to the potential fire hazards it poses. A mishap at this facility could lead to dire consequences, including catastrophic explosions.

    The SBM holds a significant position in ensuring Nigeria’s energy security, being instrumental in facilitating the widespread distribution of products across the southwestern region of the country. The culprits, engaged in acts of vandalism and oil theft, surreptitiously attach hoses and pumping machinery to pipelines using an assortment of tools.

    Oguntuga said, “This not only compromises the quality of intended products but also elevates the risk of fire outbreaks. Moreover, such unscrupulous activities enable wrongdoers to obtain products without cost, thus potentially fueling criminal activities and undermining national security.

    The rapid response of the NNS BEECROFT patrol team was achieved through the utilization of cutting-edge technology known as Falcon Eye Alignment. This advanced technological solution highlights the Nigerian Navy’s steadfast commitment to harnessing innovations for the protection of the nation’s economic interests.

    According to Commodore Kolawale Oguntuga, under the guidance of Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, the Nigerian Navy remains resolute and unwavering in its determination to combat all forms of economic sabotage. This dedication ensures the sustainable growth of the nation’s blue economy, fostering prosperity and progress.

  • 81 Division Nigerian Army Launches Probe Into Alleged Fatal Shooting Of Unarmed Motorist

    81 Division Nigerian Army Launches Probe Into Alleged Fatal Shooting Of Unarmed Motorist


    The 81 Division of the Nigerian Army (NA) has initiated a thorough investigation into the reported killing of Mr. Lawal, an innocent motorist, allegedly at the hands of individuals wearing military attire on August 17, 2023.

    In a demonstration of its commitment to transparency and accountability, the 81 Division Nigerian Army Headquarters is officially disclosing the incident to the public.

    Although details about the incident remain limited, the division believes it is paramount to provide information about the ongoing investigation and the measures being taken to identify the suspects, presumed to be soldiers, and hold them accountable if found to be affiliated with the military.

    Collaborating closely with the Lagos State Command of the Nigerian Police, the division is actively conducting an inquiry to ascertain the identity of the alleged perpetrators and to uncover the circumstances surrounding this regrettable event.

    Should the investigation establish the involvement of active-duty soldiers, the division pledges to ensure that they face the full extent of both military and civilian legal consequences.

    While the investigation is underway, the leadership of the 81 Division urges the bereaved family of the victim to exercise patience and await the conclusion of the inquiry.

    Any individual implicated in wrongdoing will be subjected to disciplinary actions, as the Nigerian Army maintains a steadfast intolerance for any form of misconduct or criminal engagement involving its personnel.

    This incident will not be left unaddressed, as the Nigerian Army remains committed to upholding its high standards of integrity and accountability.

    The General Officer Commanding 81 Division NA, Maj Gen MT Usman, extends heartfelt condolences to the victim’s family. He assures them that justice will prevail and affirms that those responsible for the tragic loss will be held accountable for their actions.

  • Vice Admiral Ogalla Engages In Maritime Readiness Assessment, Empowerment Endeavours During Lagos Tour

    Vice Admiral Ogalla Engages In Maritime Readiness Assessment, Empowerment Endeavours During Lagos Tour


    The Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, embarked on a significant journey to various units and establishments within the Lagos Area, marking a pivotal moment in his Familiarization tour.

    The tour was orchestrated to facilitate a comprehensive evaluation of the activities, challenges, ongoing projects, and independent operations executed by the Nigerian Navy (NN) and in collaboration with sister services.

    A focal highlight of the tour was the Chief’s interaction with the dedicated personnel stationed in the Lagos Area. Demonstrating his profound commitment to the well-being of the naval force, Vice Admiral Ogalla reiterated the paramount importance of the human element in all production endeavors. “In line with my strategic directives, our foremost priority is the empowerment and motivation of our personnel,” he stated.

    He placed emphasis on advancing strategic training programs, notably the Special Boat Service (S.B.S) and similar initiatives.

    The Chief of the Naval Staff emphasized the need to equip naval personnel with the proficiency to proficiently operate the state-of-the-art machinery, equipment, and platforms procured by the Nigerian Navy.

    He noted, “So, we can train the men in a way that they will be able to use the machines, equipment and the platforms that we have spent so much money to acquire.

    “I believe that one’s we take care of the personnel, then they will take care of the machines. We have been and we keep ensuring that we combat crude oil thieves. It’s part of our statutory responsibilities which we cannot take for granted.

    “We have been doing it and we are going to improve on out capacity. We will double up our efforts in this regard, believing that we will achieve the desired objectives,” he said.

    Vice Admiral Ogalla further affirmed, “When we invest in our personnel, they, in turn, safeguard and optimize our valuable assets. Our ongoing efforts to combat crude oil theft underscore our unwavering commitment to our statutory responsibilities, an aspect we hold with the utmost seriousness.”

    Addressing the maritime significance of the Lagos Area, Vice Admiral Ogalla articulated its role as a vital hub for maritime trade. Safeguarding the sea lanes leading to Lagos Port is pivotal to ensuring a secure maritime environment for the nation. In this context, he shared, “Lagos holds a paramount place in our maritime domain. By protecting the sea lanes of communication, we are significantly enhancing the maritime security landscape.”

    Leveraging the region’s strategic assets, such as the Bircote base, and emphasizing future initiatives, including the establishment of new bases in Epe, Vice Admiral Ogalla reaffirmed the Nigerian Navy’s commitment to improving the ease of doing business in Lagos. By bolstering security measures in the maritime domain, the Navy aims to bolster trade and investment activities.

    The Navy’s vision of synergizing human capabilities with advanced technologies was highlighted, with Vice Admiral Ogalla elaborating on their innovative Force Eye surveillance system.

    This cutting-edge technology acts as a force multiplier, complementing human intelligence and other forms of information gathering. “Our pursuit of comprehensive maritime security includes leveraging technology to extend our operational reach,” he emphasized.

    Ogalla emphasized that the invaluable contribution of dedicated personnel remains irreplaceable. With a resolute focus on enhancing security across both land and eternal waters – a substantial 30% of Lagos lies within the eternal water area – the Nigerian Navy is committed to upholding maritime safety and promoting economic prosperity.

    The Chief’s visit to the Lagos Area serves as a testament to the Navy’s dedication to upholding its responsibilities, fostering personnel growth, and embracing innovative technologies for a secure maritime future.

  • LASTMA, Army Collaborate To Enhance Traffic Management Partnership In Lagos

    LASTMA, Army Collaborate To Enhance Traffic Management Partnership In Lagos

    Officials from the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) and the Nigerian Army have come to an agreement to enhance their collaboration in traffic management within Lagos.

    During a visit by a delegation from the 9 Brigade Command of the Nigerian Army, led by Brigadier General Adegoke Moses Adetuyi, Mr. Bolaji Oreagba, the General Manager of LASTMA, announced this development.

    Mr. Oreagba warmly welcomed the military representatives and expressed his gratitude for their visit to the Lastma Headquarters in Oshodi, considering it a significant gesture.

    Regarding a regrettable incident involving a confrontation between a Lastma Officer and a Soldier, Mr. Oreagba reaffirmed that there exists a strong bond between these two agencies. He emphasized that LASTMA staff will continue to depend on the unwavering support provided by the Nigerian Army and other security entities throughout the State.

    Mr. Oreagba said, “we won’t abuse the relationship nor take the cordiality and warm friendliness which has existed between the Army and Lastma for granted”

    He asserted that the recurrence of such incidents could be prevented by maintaining the existing channels of communication and exploring additional new hotlines between the two agencies. This would ensure the continual resolution of issues.

    In his previous statements, Brigadier General Adegoke Moses Adetuyi, the Commander of the 9th Brigade of the Nigerian Army, highlighted that malicious actors thrive in an environment of discord among security agencies. Hence, fostering more harmonious collaboration and extensive cooperation among all government bodies, including Lastma, is crucial.

    Commending the commendable efforts of Lastma Officials who tirelessly work day and night, Brigadier Adetuyi pledged ongoing support from the Nigerian Army’s 9th Brigade Command. This assistance aims to reinforce Lastma’s activities on the roads and guarantee the safety of traffic managers as they carry out their essential duties.

    Among the Army Officials present during the visit were Major A.A Nasir (OC MP), Major A. Sanusi, Major A.A Onwemene, Major A.K Ballo, and LT T.H Owoyemi.

    Also present from Lastma were Mr. Peter Gbejemede, the Director of Operations; Mr. Apena Biliaminu, the Provost Marshal; Mr. Adeoye James, Head of Headquarters Operations (Rover); Mr. Macaulay Modupe-Ore, Head of Lastma Training; CSP Ajibola Abayomi, Head of the Police Unit of Lastma; and Adebayo Taofiq, the Director of the Public Affairs and Enlightenment Department of LASTMA.

  • Major General Usman Kicks Off 2023 Combat Proficiency Contest

    Major General Usman Kicks Off 2023 Combat Proficiency Contest



    The General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the 81st Division of the Nigerian Army, Major General Muhammed Takuti Usman has inaugurated the 81 Division Combat Proficiency Competition.

    The event was a key element of the Nigerian Army’s forecasted activities for the year 2023.

    The purpose of the competition is to enhance leadership skills, foster camaraderie, promote professional competence, and prepare officers for higher responsibilities. The event is being hosted at the 243 Recce Battalion located in Ibereko Barracks, Badagry, Lagos State.

    The competition also serves to ready the participating officers for potential combat situations, given the ongoing security challenges faced by the country.

    Representing the GOC was Brigadier General MA Sadiq, the Commander of the 81 Division Garrison who emphasized that this year’s Inter-Brigade Combat Proficiency Competition would be more rigorous and demanding than previous iterations due to the thorough preparations put forth by both the competition organizers and the participating units.

    He encouraged all participating officers to give their utmost effort in order to reap the maximum benefits from the event and bring honour to their respective units.

    The GOC underscored the importance of training as a foundational element for all military operations.

    He stressed that the performance of troops in both peacetime and wartime directly stems from the quality of training they receive. He referred to training as an essential tool that guarantees heightened military professionalism.

    Major General MT Usman also mentioned that the 81st Division was meeting expectations by hosting this year’s exercise in accordance with the Chief of Army Staff’s Command Philosophy, which aims to transform the Nigerian Army into a well-trained, well-equipped, and highly motivated force capable of fulfilling its constitutional obligations within a collaborative framework.

    The GOC provided a rundown of the criteria established to evaluate the competing formations in this year’s competition. These criteria encompassed skills such as map reading, combat swimming, weapon handling, and obstacle crossing.

    He highlighted that these requirements would serve as platforms for enhancing the combat proficiency and preparedness of junior commanders, enabling them to showcase their leadership acumen.

    He expressed gratitude towards the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) for his invaluable strategic guidance and support in meeting the Division’s training needs. He reiterated the Division’s unwavering commitment to prioritizing training, as evidenced by their adherence to all Nigerian Army Training Directives for the year 2023.

    The opening ceremony was marked by the initiation of the Map Reading exercise, which was the first activity scheduled for the competition. The exercise was hotly contested, signifying the commencement of the overall competition process.

  • Nigerian Army Clarifies Voluntary Discharge Process Amidst Media Speculations

    Nigerian Army Clarifies Voluntary Discharge Process Amidst Media Speculations

    The Nigerian Army has debunked recent claims circulating in the media regarding the voluntary discharge of 25 soldiers.

    The army’s statement aims to address the misrepresentation and unfounded insinuations that have caused unwarranted concern within the public sphere.

    In response to an article published by Sahara Reporters, an online media outlet, the Nigerian Army has clarified that the voluntary discharge or retirement of soldiers is a routine and well-defined process within the organization. The article had suggested a link between the soldiers’ resignations and alleged corruption within the army, a claim the military vehemently denies.

    The Nigerian Army’s statement emphasized that the soldiers’ voluntary discharge was a result of their personal decisions and compliance with established regulations.

    The army reinforced that it is not a conscript force and that individuals join voluntarily, subject to the terms and conditions stipulated in the Harmonized Terms and Conditions of Service Soldiers/Ratings/Airmen (Revised) 2017.

    This includes the right for personnel to apply for voluntary discharge or retirement when they deem it appropriate and meet the necessary criteria.

    Lt Gen Taoreed Lagbaja, who currently leads the Nigerian Army, reiterated the organization’s commitment to maintaining a supportive and conducive work environment for its personnel.

    The statement highlighted ongoing efforts to enhance operational capabilities, timely disbursement of operational allowances, such as the recently increased Ration Cash Allowance, extensive infrastructure development, and considerable investment in the medical well-being of wounded soldiers.

    Also, the Nigerian Army emphasized its dedication to troops’ welfare, evident in the implementation of a comprehensive plan for troop rotation from the frontline.

    This strategic approach helps overcome issues of overstay and battle fatigue, ultimately contributing to the troops’ overall well-being and effectiveness.

    Brigadier General Onyema Nwachukwu, Director of Army Public Relations, underlined the importance of public trust and accountability.

    He affirmed the commitment of the Nigerian Army to uphold integrity, professionalism, and transparency in all operations. Nwachukwu cautioned against the media manipulation that could undermine the morale and fighting spirit of the dedicated and patriotic troops who serve the nation.

    The general public is urged to disregard the misleading insinuations presented in the aforementioned publication, as the claims lack substantive evidence. The Nigerian Army remains steadfast in its mission to protect the nation’s security, while also ensuring the welfare and motivation of its personnel.

  • COAS Advocates Utilisation Of Emerging Technologies For Operational Efficiency

    COAS Advocates Utilisation Of Emerging Technologies For Operational Efficiency


    The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja has advocated the sustenance of utilization of emerging technologies for operational efficiency in the Nigerian Army (NA).

    The COAS stated this today Tuesday 8 August 2023, at the Army Headquarters during a paper presentation, titled “Emerging Technologies and Operational Efficiency: Implications for the Nigerian Army by 2035”, presented by participants of the National Defence College (NDC) Course 31.

    Commending the participants for a well researched paper, the Army Chief pointed out, that the paper presentation will revitalize the consciousness of emerging technologies and its implications for operational efficiency.

    The COAS disclosed, that the Nigerian Army as a sub system of the larger society is already keying into emerging technologies in its institutions and establishments, adding that the NA will sustain the development, as it cannot divorce itself completely from the dynamics of both its internal and external environments.

    The COAS averred, that employing emerging technologies has provided the Nigerian Army with improved surveillance capability, enhanced communication, efficient data management, situational awareness and strategic decision-making.

    Earlier, the Commandant National Defence College, Rear Admiral Olumuyiwa Olotu, stated that the presentation unveils the potentials of emerging technologies in significantly impacting on present and future operational engagements of the NA.

    He noted that as technologies continue to advance, the NA must continue to adopt and integrate evolving innovations, in other to maintain a competitive edge in the theatres of operations.

    He asserted, that the NA must continue to aspire to be a driver of technological changes, while constantly providing emerging technologies to enhance decision-making for operational efficiency.

    The event was climaxed with the presentation of a hard copy of the research paper to the COAS.

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