Category: Military

In a press briefing held today, Customs Area Controller (CAC) James Ojo of Ogun I Area Command, Nigeria Customs Service, lauded the command’s outstanding achievements in the second quarter of 2024. Addressing the media in Abeokuta, Controller Ojo underscored significant milestones in revenue generation and anti-smuggling operations, emphasizing the command’s commitment to national economic development and security.

Controller Ojo reported that Ogun I Area Command generated N92,369,227.00 in revenue during Q2 2024, marking a notable 52.46% increase from the N53,983,622.00 recorded in the same period last year. Highlighting exceptional performance in June 2024, the command surpassed its monthly revenue target of N34,122,666.90 by an impressive 77.86%. He credited this success to the dedication and professionalism of the officers and men, aligned with the strategic directives of the Customs leadership.

The briefing also detailed the command’s enforcement achievements, including interceptions of contraband goods. Among the seized items were 219 sacks and 1,725 parcels of cannabis sativa, 940 rounds of live ammunition, 44,466 liters of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), 2,227 pieces of pneumatic foreign-used tires, and significant quantities of frozen poultry products, foreign parboiled rice, vehicles, motorcycles, and used shoes, with a combined Duty Paid Value (DPV) of N770,666,237.00. Controller Ojo emphasized that these seizures reflect the command’s unwavering resolve against smuggling, safeguarding public health, and preserving economic integrity.

Drawing attention to the health implications of seized items, Controller Ojo highlighted risks associated with smuggled cannabis sativa, foreign-used pneumatic tires, and frozen poultry products. He underscored dangers such as psychoactive effects, safety hazards from expired tires, and health risks from chemical contamination and antibiotic resistance in poultry products, underscoring the command’s role in protecting citizens’ well-being.

Recognizing the collaborative effort essential to their success, Controller Ojo praised the support of traditional rulers and security agencies in Ogun State. He noted the pivotal role of these stakeholders in enhancing operational effectiveness through intelligence sharing and joint initiatives aimed at curbing smuggling and promoting national security.

In conclusion, Controller Ojo expressed gratitude to Comptroller General of Customs Bashir Adeniyi and commended the dedication of Ogun I Area Command personnel. He reaffirmed commitment to excellence and collaboration with stakeholders, emphasizing the role of media in transparent reportage. Looking ahead, he pledged continued efforts to build on achievements, tackle emerging challenges, and contribute to Nigeria’s economic prosperity and security.

Comptroller James Ojo, the Customs Area Controller (CAC) of Ogun I Area Command, Nigeria Customs Service, recently embarked on a courtesy visit to the Alake of Egbaland, His Royal Majesty Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo CFR, other esteemed traditional rulers, and sister security agencies in Ogun State. The visit aimed to foster sustainable collaboration and synergy to enhance economic growth and security along Nigeria’s borders with the Republic of Benin through intelligence sharing and collaborative anti-smuggling operations.

During his visit, Comptroller Ojo expressed deep appreciation for the unwavering support of traditional rulers and emphasized the crucial role they play in maintaining peace, order, and security within their communities. He highlighted the importance of leveraging traditional institutions’ influence and insights to effectively combat smuggling activities and enhance border security.

Comptroller Ojo’s engagements also included fruitful discussions with sister security agencies in Ogun State. These meetings underscored the need for continuous and robust collaboration among security agencies to address the challenges posed by smuggling and other cross-border crimes. By sharing intelligence, resources, and expertise, the Nigeria Customs Service and other security agencies can create a formidable front against those who seek to undermine Nigeria’s economic stability and national security.

The courtesy visit aligns with the policy thrust of the Comptroller General of Customs, who has emphasized the principles of consolidation, collaboration, and innovation. Comptroller Ojo reiterated the commitment of the Ogun I Area Command to these principles, noting that such engagements are crucial for fostering a secure and prosperous environment for the people of Ogun State and Nigeria at large.

Acknowledging the strategic importance of Ogun State’s borders with the Republic of Benin, Comptroller Ojo assured that the Nigeria Customs Service, in collaboration with traditional rulers and security agencies, will continue to implement intelligent and innovative strategies to safeguard the nation’s borders and promote economic growth.

The responses from all the critical stakeholders visited were positive and impressive. The CAC was assured of continuous support and collaboration with Ogun I Area Command and was accorded a warm reception throughout his visit. The sister security agencies visited include the Nigerian Police Force, 35 Artillery Brigade Nigerian Army, Federal Road Safety Corps, Defence Intelligence Agency, and Nigeria Correctional Service, amongst others.

In his concluding remarks, Comptroller Ojo expressed optimism about the positive outcomes of the visit and the strengthened relationships with traditional rulers and security agencies. He called for ongoing cooperation, vigilance, and commitment to tackling the challenges ahead. Comptroller Ojo affirmed that the Ogun I Area Command is dedicated to working in the spirit of unity and shared purpose to achieve their collective goals.

In a significant operation demonstrating their ongoing commitment to maritime security, the Nigerian Navy’s Forward Operating Base (FOB) Badagry has intercepted and handed over bags of products suspected to be cannabis sativa to the Nigeria Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Seme Special Area Command.

The interception occurred on May 31, 2024, at approximately 0620 hours, during a routine patrol along the waterways. Acting on credible intelligence, the naval personnel moved swiftly and intercepted the suspected drugs at the beachside near the Falcon Eye sensor, at Daddi, Barrier Island. The drugs, believed to have been smuggled from Ghana, were transported via a wooden boat and subsequently beach-landed.

On June 20, 2024, Lieutenant Commander BI Zoaka, the Base Operations Officer of FOB Badagry, officially handed over four seized sacks to Assistant Commander Narcotics Ogbogoh Emmanuel, all suspected to be cannabis sativa. This action aligns with the Harmonized Standard Procedures on Arrest, Detention, and Prosecution (HSOP-AD&P) of 2016.

The Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, has emphasized the mission to maintain a professionally competent naval force capable of defending Nigeria’s maritime interests. Under his leadership, the Nigerian Navy has intensified efforts to secure maritime environments and curb illegal activities. Supporting this mission, Rear Admiral Mustapha Bala Hassan, Flag Officer Commanding Western Naval Command, launched Operation WATER GUARD on November 9, 2023. This operation aims to deny smugglers and other criminal elements freedom of action within the Badagry General Area, thus ensuring regional security and economic stability.

The sustained efforts of the Nigerian Navy Forward Operating Base Badagry reflect the CNS Strategic Directive 2023-6, which seeks to secure the maritime environment of Nigeria and the Gulf of Guinea. This recent interception marks the second significant operation since the current administration of FOB Badagry assumed office in February 2024.

Captain Bitebobo Augustus Amakiri, Commanding Officer of the Nigerian Navy Forward Operating Base Badagry, commended the personnel for their vigilance and dedication, reiterating the navy’s commitment to national security and economic prosperity through sustained maritime security operations.

In a bold move against illicit activities, the Nigerian Customs Service (NCS) has intercepted and seized significant quantities of illicit drugs and pharmaceutical products worth over N3.2bn at various points across the country.

Comptroller-General Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, addressed a packed press conference in Lagos today, detailing the latest seizures and emphasizing the NCS’s commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s borders and communities.

Opening the conference, Adeniyi highlighted the recent successes in intercepting illegal shipments, including drugs, arms, wildlife, and petroleum products. These seizures underscore the ongoing battle against criminal networks attempting to undermine national security and economic stability through illegal activities.

“The misuse of drugs such as Cannabis Indica and codeine poses severe dangers to our society,” Adeniyi stated, addressing the devastating impact on youth and the broader community. He pointed out that these substances not only jeopardize public health but also contribute to increased criminal activities and social unrest.

Providing specific details, Adeniyi disclosed the seizure of two containers by the Tin-Can Command of the NCS:

– Container 1 (40ft): Concealed within were 3 plastic drums holding packets of Cannabis Indica and 46 bags containing a total of 2,144 packets, weighing 1,072 kilograms. The estimated street value of the seized substances is N3,216,000,000.00 (Three Billion Two Hundred Sixteen Million Naira).

– Container 2 (40ft): This shipment from India contained 877 cartons of Barcadin cough syrup with codeine (200 bottles of 100ml per carton) and 82 cartons of Really Extra Diclofenac Sodium 50mg tablets (600 packs per carton).

The approximate street value of the seized cough syrup amounts to N964,339,348.00 (Nine Hundred and Sixty Four Million, Three Hundred and Thirty Nine Thousand, Three Hundred and Forty Eight Naira). Totalling (N4,180,339,348.00) Four Billion, One Hundred and Eighty Million, Three Hundred and Thirty Nine Thousand, Three Hundred and Forty Eight Naira Only.

Adeniyi emphasized that these operations exemplify the NCS’s determination to intercept and disrupt criminal activities.

He acknowledged the collaborative efforts with agencies like the Nigeria Drug and Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), which have proven instrumental in these successes.

“We continue to urge all patriotic Nigerians to engage in legitimate business activities,” Adeniyi urged, underscoring the NCS’s commitment to supporting lawful trade while combating illicit practices. 

The Nigerian Navy Forward Operating Base (FOB) Badagry has successfully intercepted a human trafficking operation and seized a significant quantity of smuggled rice in two separate operations, demonstrating their commitment to maritime security and economic stability in Nigeria and the Gulf of Guinea.

In the first incident, on June 1, 2024, at approximately 16:47, a patrol team from FOB Badagry, while on routine surveillance at Tongeji Island, intercepted a wooden fibre passenger boat in the midstream area. Upon questioning, three young women, Nanbet Mwantu, Kyendi Pofi, and Patience Amos, claimed they were en route to Lagos.

However, the patrol team found this suspicious as the route suggested they were heading to the Benin Republic.

Further interrogation revealed that the women were likely being trafficked from Nigeria to the Benin Republic by one Miss Mozie Promise. The suspected trafficker was subsequently located, arrested, and taken to the base along with the victims. On June 4, 2024, the suspects and the victims were handed over to the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) Zonal Office in Ikeja, Lagos, for further investigation and prosecution. This action aligns with the Harmonized Standard Procedures on Arrest, Detention, and Prosecution (HSOP-AD&P) 2016.

Captain Bitebobo Augustus Amakiri, Commanding Officer of FOB Badagry, emphasized that these efforts are part of the CNS Strategic Directive 2023-6, which aims to ensure a safe and secure maritime environment in Nigeria and the Gulf of Guinea.

In a separate operation, on June 7, 2024, at about 05:30, acting on credible human intelligence from a local fisherman, the FOB Badagry patrol team intercepted a suspicious boat that had run aground at the Badagry-Porto Novo creek along the Topo-Idale route. The boat was found to contain several bags of foreign parboiled rice. During the interception, the suspects abandoned the vessel and swam through a swampy area to reach the shore. The boat and its contents were taken into custody for further investigation.

These actions are in line with the mission set forth by Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS), and Rear Admiral Mustapha Bala Hassan, Flag Officer Commanding Western Naval Command, who launched Operation WATER GUARD on November 9, 2023. This operation aims to deny smugglers and other criminal elements the freedom to operate within the Western Naval Command’s area of operations, ensuring security and economic stability in the region.

Captain Amakiri reiterated that these sustained efforts by FOB Badagry are crucial for maintaining a secure maritime environment, which is essential for economic activities to thrive in Nigeria and the Gulf of Guinea.

The Nigerian Navy’s proactive measures and strategic operations continue to play a vital role in safeguarding the nation’s waters and contributing to the fight against smuggling and human trafficking.

The Western Marine Command (WMC) of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has made significant strides in its ongoing efforts to combat smuggling activities along the Western Waterways. Recently, the Command intercepted and seized 17 sacks containing 1,257 loaves of Cannabis Sativa, with a combined weight of 720kg and an estimated value of over 96 million Naira. Additionally, the Command confiscated 505 bags of foreign parboiled rice worth over 59 million Naira.

On the night of May 15, 2024, at around 11:00 PM, officers and men of the WMC stationed at Bar Beach received credible intelligence regarding a boat carrying suspected illegal items on the high seas. Acting swiftly, the patrol team intercepted a fiber boat equipped with a 200HP Yamaha engine. Upon inspection, they discovered the 17 sacks filled with loaves of Cannabis Sativa.

In a related incident on May 19, 2024, a joint patrol team from the Command was conducting a routine patrol along Panko Creek, Badagry Waterways, when they encountered a wooden boat with a 25HP Yamaha engine carrying suspected contraband items. The smugglers abandoned their boat and dived into the water upon sighting the patrol. A thorough examination revealed the boat was transporting 505 bags of 50kg foreign parboiled rice, totaling 59,185,000 Naira in value.

The actions of these smugglers violate sections 245 and 254 of the NCS Act 2023, which the WMC is mandated to enforce. In line with the Comptroller General’s policy of interagency collaboration, the WMC, led by Comptroller Paul Bamisaiye, received approval to hand over the seized Cannabis Sativa, including 72 loaves previously confiscated, to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).

Comptroller Paul Bamisaiye expressed gratitude to the CGC and the NCS management for their support and motivation. He urged the general public and traders to refrain from engaging in illicit drug activities and smuggling, which are considered economic sabotage. He emphasized that such activities contribute to the prevalence of societal menaces such as banditry, kidnapping, and armed robbery.

The Western Marine Command remains committed to enhancing its performance in combating smuggling and ensuring the safety and security of the maritime domain.

In an inspiring initiative to address societal issues and advocate for change, Abaji Maimuna Yahaya, a renowned actor, movie producer, and naval wife, has produced a film titled “The Women Called Wives.” Yahaya, who also serves as the National PRO of the Naval Officers Wives Association, emphasizes that the movie aims to instill core values and highlight the unique challenges faced by women married to military men.

“The idea behind the movie is advocacy,” Yahaya explained. “We try to use the movie to talk about core values that we want to impact in society and things that we think should be changed because, over time, there’s been an evolution. Some traditional practices have not changed. As a woman, I chose to speak about those things and, if possible, correct them.”

“The Women Called Wives” delves into pressing issues such as hunger, starvation, unemployment, drug abuse, and the struggles within marriages and family units. It sheds light on the peculiar challenges faced by military wives and offers guidance on coping, adapting, and improving family dynamics.

Mrs. Yahaya expressed confidence that the film would significantly impact women in the naval community. “We have taken steps to speak about some of the things we have considered as ills and documented them in a movie form to educate. We are watching to see how we can apply this in our homes, support our husbands, and make positive changes.”

The movie, which will be aired on DSTV and shown to officers’ wives nationwide, aims to reorient thinking and promote resilience. “When you see a movie over time, it begins to gradually affect the way you think. We will achieve the reorientation that we are working on,” Yahaya noted.

Abaji Maimuna Yahaya prioritizes activities that build her family and mind, participating in training, events, and seminars designed to support naval officers’ wives. “It takes a strong breed to be married to a military man. We need to stay focused, strong, and supportive.”

As part of their initiatives, the Naval Officers Wives Association hosts programs to impact both commissioned and non-commissioned officers’ wives, emphasizing strength, mental and physical well-being, and self-love.

Yahaya also highlighted the importance of prayer for military wives. “Every woman, whether a military wife or not, should be prayerful. Without God, we will all be losing our minds. The uncertainty of our husbands’ safety is scary, and prayer is a stabilizing factor.”

Her message to officers’ wives is clear: “Be strong, be prayerful, pray for your husbands day and night, stabilize your homes, and preserve your minds and those of your families. We will continue to sail in unity and unison.”

In a significant move to tackle maritime crimes and enhance Nigeria’s Blue Economy, President Bola Tinubu, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, inaugurated three Nigerian Navy ships and two helicopters on Thursday.

The ceremony, held at the Naval Dockyard in Victoria Island, Lagos, marked a key event in the celebration of the Nigerian Navy’s 68th anniversary and the fifth International Maritime Conference.

The conference, themed “Promoting the Blue Economy in Africa through International Cooperation on Maritime Security,” aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 14 and Africa’s Agenda 2063. It aims to foster collaboration among African nations to address maritime security and harness the economic potential of the Blue Economy.

President Tinubu highlighted the significant economic impact of the Blue Economy, projecting a value increase to $15.5 trillion globally by 2050 and an African market projection of $405 billion by 2030.

He stressed the importance of strategic partnerships between the Nigerian Navy and other African maritime forces to combat transnational maritime threats.

Vice President Shettima emphasized the Nigerian Navy’s evolution and commitment to securing Nigeria’s maritime domain, noting the necessity of international collaboration to address complex security challenges.

He commended the Navy’s efforts in fleet recapitalization, indigenous shipbuilding, and strategic partnerships aimed at enhancing maritime security in the Gulf of Guinea.

Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Matawalle, praised the Navy’s professionalism and its role in safeguarding Nigeria’s economic interests.

He expressed optimism that the conference would yield innovative strategies to enhance maritime security and economic prosperity.

Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, underscored the transnational nature of maritime threats and the need for collective international efforts.

He highlighted ongoing regional initiatives and the Navy’s strategic plan, including the upgrade of the Hydrography Department to the National Hydrographic Agency and significant ship repair projects.

Lagos State Deputy Governor, Obafemi Hamzat, lauded the Navy’s contributions to national security and called for the recognition of personnel sacrifices.

He reiterated Lagos’ pivotal role in Nigeria’s maritime economy and the importance of supporting initiatives to secure and develop the Blue Economy.

The event also marked the start of the Regional Maritime Exercise (REMEX), involving ships from Brazil, China, Cameroon, Ghana, and Togo, further showcasing the Navy’s preparedness and the support of the Tinubu-led administration.

In celebration of the Nigerian Navy’s 68th anniversary and Children’s Day, the Nigerian Navy made a significant outreach to local schools in Badagry. Lt. Commander Alaba Egbayelo, representing Navy Captain BA Amakiri, Commanding Officer of the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Badagry, visited Methodist Senior High School and Topo Senior Grammar School to engage with students and promote awareness on security and drug abuse prevention.

“This initiative is part of our civil-military relationship program during Navy Week,” said Lt. Commander Egbayelo. “We aim to connect with the civilian populace, particularly the youth, to teach them security tips and the dangers of drug abuse. By doing this, we contribute to their education and help them make informed choices.”

The visit included interactive sessions where Navy officers provided vital information on personal security and the risks associated with drug abuse. The program also emphasized the importance of community vigilance and proactive measures to ensure safety.

“We aim to reach out to our host communities beyond just providing security,” added Lt. Commander Egbayelo. “This direct interaction allows us to educate the youth on critical issues, fostering a safer environment for everyone. We plan to continue these visits to more schools to broaden our impact.”

The distribution of the writing materials, which included books and other educational supplies at Topo Senior Grammar School and Methodist Senior High School Badagry emphasized the significance of promoting quality education within the community

Students expressed their gratitude for the initiative. Precious Ben-Anorue from SS2A of Topo Senior Grammar School shared her experience: “The program has enlightened me on how to protect myself both physically and mentally. The knowledge gained today will help me in many areas of my life, and I am grateful to the Nigerian Navy for this opportunity.”

Kehinde Dosu, also from SS2 at Topo Senior Grammar School, echoed similar sentiments: “I learned about the dangers of drug abuse and how to secure myself in various situations, including online safety. This program has been very informative and beneficial.”

The Nigerian Navy’s efforts highlight their commitment to community engagement and youth education, aiming to reduce drug abuse and enhance security awareness among young people.

The initiative underscores the importance of civil-military cooperation in addressing societal challenges and fostering a secure and healthy environment for future generations.

The Navy encourages community members to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activities, reinforcing the message that everyone’s cooperation is essential in maintaining safety.