Category: Military

  • Navy Combats Rising Stowaway Incidents in Lagos Waters

    Navy Combats Rising Stowaway Incidents in Lagos Waters

    The Nigerian Navy has reported a significant increase in stowaway cases within Nigerian territorial waters, citing concerns over the growing trend. According to the Nigerian Navy, from August 2023 to April 2024, approximately 75 stowaways were apprehended in various operations aimed at curbing this perilous activity.

    Under the directive of the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, the Navy has enhanced its Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA) capabilities. This includes deploying advanced equipment that enables Quick Response Teams (QRT) to efficiently monitor and address security threats in Nigeria’s waters.

    The details released by the Navy indicate a persistent problem, with incidents recorded across multiple vessels. For instance, the MSC Martha and the MT UOG Constantine encountered stowaways in August 2023 and December 2023, respectively, with the latter finding 14 individuals hidden within the vessel.

    All individuals apprehended were found in critical hiding spots like rudder compartments, posing severe risks to their health due to harsh conditions, lack of sustenance, and potential injuries. Following their recovery, the stowaways were handed over to the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) for further processing and legal action.

    The Nigerian Navy has issued a stern warning against the dangers of stowaway attempts, which include not only legal repercussions but also significant health risks, and possibly death. The Navy’s ongoing efforts to tackle this issue reflect a broader commitment to maintaining security and safety in Nigeria’s maritime territories.

    Commodore A Adams-Aliu, the Director of Information for the Navy, emphasized the need for public awareness and urged the media to help disseminate the risks associated with stowaway behaviors, especially to discourage the youth from such hazardous undertakings.

  • Ogun I Customs Command Celebrates Comptroller Shuaibu As He Hands Over to Ojo

    Ogun I Customs Command Celebrates Comptroller Shuaibu As He Hands Over to Ojo

    …Celebrating Remarkable Achievements

    Comptroller AB Shuaibu bids farewell to his tenure as Customs Area Controller of Ogun 1 Command, passing the baton to the incoming Controller James Folorunsho Ojo, amidst celebrations of significant accomplishments achieved under his leadership.

    The transition ceremony, marked by the recent redeployment of Area Controllers and Heads of Units/Formations by the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR dsm fnipr fniia psc(+), symbolized the seamless continuity of operations and the preservation of mission objectives within the Command.

    Addressing a distinguished gathering including the newly appointed Area Controller, Comptroller James Folorunsho Ojo, heads of security agencies, management team members, and critical stakeholders, Comptroller Shuaibu expressed gratitude to Almighty Allah for the opportunity to serve and to the Customs leadership for entrusting him with various responsibilities.

    Reflecting on his tenure, Comptroller Shuaibu highlighted significant achievements, including a notable increase in revenue generation, enhanced anti-smuggling efforts, and substantial contributions to the overall development of the Command. Under his stewardship, the Command also engaged in impactful Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives.

    Since assuming leadership on September 18, 2023, Comptroller AB Shuaibu has initiated significant transformations within the Ogun 1 Command in Idiroko, evidenced by a range of operational and community-focused improvements.

    Immediately upon taking office, the Command executed a major operation, seizing vehicles loaded with smuggled rice and substantial quantities of cannabis sativa. The success of this operation, based on credible intelligence, drew the praise of the Customs General Controller (CGC), who visited the state to highlight the achievement in a press conference.

    In an effort to streamline operations and enhance trade facilitation, Comptroller Shuaibu dramatically reduced the number of checkpoints from 32 to just five along the critical Idiroko-Owode corridor. This move has been complemented by a vigorous campaign against illegal activities by “campboys” along the same route.

    Infrastructure upgrades have also been a priority, with renovations to the administrative block and the replacement of furniture in the Comptroller’s office. Further, the command has seen the installation of a new power generator, benefiting both staff and stakeholders, and the restoration of power supply in both the senior and junior barracks.

    The welfare of the command’s personnel has also received attention with provisions for daily meals for officers on guard duty and light breakfasts at the command’s headquarters. Subsidies have been applied to meals at the Officers’ Mess, enhancing affordability for personnel.

    In line with corporate social responsibility, the Command has launched initiatives such as ‘Art for Economic Development’ and ‘Cloth a Child’, which distribute school uniforms and supplies to underprivileged children. Collaboration with local youth groups to combat smuggling and inter-border security meetings further highlight the Command’s proactive community engagement.

    The outgoing Area Controller attributed these successes to the unwavering support of the NCS Headquarters, the dedication of officers and men, and collaborative efforts with critical stakeholders. He urged continued commitment from officers to sustain the Command’s performance tempo under the incoming administration.

    Comptroller Shuaibu also appealed for steadfast support for his successor from critical stakeholders, acknowledging the impartiality of news coverage provided by the press throughout his tenure.

    Welcoming Comptroller James Folorunsho Ojo to the Command, Comptroller Shuaibu expressed confidence in his capabilities to lead with integrity, vision, and excellence, assuring him of the unwavering support of officers and men.

    In closing, Comptroller Shuaibu extended heartfelt appreciation to all officers and men of Ogun 1 Command, heads of security agencies, traditional institutions, community leaders, youths, and other stakeholders for their collaborative efforts and support during his tenure.

    The ceremony concluded with a sense of gratitude and anticipation for the Command’s continued success under new leadership, as Comptroller AB Shuaibu hands over the reins to Comptroller James Folorunsho Ojo.

  • Chief of Naval Staff, NOWA Soccer Tournaments Conclude with Spectacular Closing Ceremony in Enugu

    Chief of Naval Staff, NOWA Soccer Tournaments Conclude with Spectacular Closing Ceremony in Enugu

    The 20th edition of the Chief of Naval Staff (CNS) and the 12th edition of the Naval Officers Wives Association (NOWA) Soccer Tournaments concluded with a vibrant closing ceremony held at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium in Enugu, Enugu State, on Saturday, April 13, 2024.

    The week-long tournaments, which are renowned for their significant contributions to youth development nationwide, saw the participation of 19 youth soccer teams from various states across Nigeria. The event, hosted annually in different Nigerian cities, brought together young soccer talents from across the country, promising an exciting showcase of skill and sportsmanship.

    The closing ceremony was graced by dignitaries from diverse backgrounds, including the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, who was represented by Navy Secretary Rear Admiral Patrick Nwatu. Air Vice Marshal UK Abdullahi represented the Chief of Air Staff, while Barrister Lloyd Ekweremadu, Commissioner for Youths and Sports, represented the Enugu State Governor, Peter Mba.

    The final matches of the tournaments were characterized by intense competition and gripping moments, as teams battled it out for the coveted trophies. In the Chief of Naval Staff U-14 boys category, the Kogi boys clinched third place by defeating their Rivers State counterparts 1-0. Meanwhile, in the NOWA U-17 girls category, the Imo state team emerged victorious with a stunning 4-0 victory over the highly rated Ebonyi team.

    The highlight of the day was the exhilarating final match of the Chief of Naval Staff U-14 boys category, where the host team, Adoration Boys from Enugu, delivered a stellar performance to secure a remarkable 5-0 victory over their Abia counterparts. The ecstatic atmosphere was further heightened by the presence of Reverend Father Mbaka, who provided spiritual support to the winning team.

    Individual awards were also presented to outstanding players, with Nwodo Nicholas of Enugu winning the Best Male Goalkeeper award, and Wisdom Boniface claiming the Highest Goal Scorer and Most Valuable Player awards with an impressive tally of 6 goals. Imo’s Okpara Jacklin was recognized as the Best Female Goalkeeper of the tournament.

    The Youth Sports Federation Of Nigeria (YSFON) expressed appreciation to the players and officials for their contributions to the success of the tournaments. The Nigerian Navy commended the youths for their discipline and urged them to remain focused and hardworking to ensure a prosperous future for the country.

    The closing ceremony was a fitting conclusion to an exhilarating week of football action, celebrating the talent, passion, and sportsmanship of Nigeria’s young soccer stars.

  • Nigerian Navy Uncovers Illegal Fuel Depot With 65,000 Litres of Automotive Gasoline Oil In Ilasun Lekki

    Nigerian Navy Uncovers Illegal Fuel Depot With 65,000 Litres of Automotive Gasoline Oil In Ilasun Lekki



    In a press release issued on April 3, 2024, the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Beecroft announced the discovery of an illegal fuel depot and the subsequent arrest of five suspects in Ilasun Lekki.

    The leader of the syndicate, Mr. Ahmed Ariyo, along with four other individuals, was apprehended in a private apartment where they conducted their illicit activities.

    According to Commodore Rafiu Taye Oladejo, Commander of NNS Beecroft, the discovery of the illegal fuel depot followed credible intelligence received by the naval ship regarding suspicious activities at Elegushi beach. Acting on this information, the NNS Beecroft Quick Response Team was deployed to the location, resulting in the discovery and arrest of the suspects.

    The illegal fuel depot was found to contain eight storage tanks, each with a capacity of 50,000 litres, holding approximately 57,000 litres of Automotive Gasoline Oil (AGO). Additionally, a tanker carrying about 7,000 litres of AGO and a bus with 30 jerry cans, containing approximately 1,500 litres, were seized. In total, approximately 65,000 litres of AGO were discovered, valued at approximately 89 million Naira based on the current price of AGO (₦1,350).

    Commodore Oladejo estimated the total capacity of the storage facility to be about 400,000 litres if all eight tanks were filled to capacity, amounting to approximately 500 million Naira. Preliminary investigations suggest that the suspects obtained the products through pipeline vandalism, illegal vendors at sea, and other illicit means along the coastline.

    Emphasizing the Nigerian Navy’s commitment to combating oil theft and other maritime crimes, Commodore Oladejo reiterated that NNS Beecroft will continue to pursue criminals as directed by the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu, Admiralty Medal. He assured law-abiding citizens of the navy’s dedication to eliminating maritime crimes in the Lagos maritime environment to facilitate socioeconomic activities.

    The suspects, along with the seized products and facility, were handed over to the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps for further investigation and possible prosecution.

    Lieutenant Hussaini Ibrahim, Base Information Officer at Nigerian Navy Ship Beecroft, provided the information in the press release.

  • INSECURITY: Nigerian Navy Enhances Maritime Collaboration With Pakistan

    INSECURITY: Nigerian Navy Enhances Maritime Collaboration With Pakistan

    In line with the Nigerian Navy’s commitment to fostering international maritime cooperation, Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, delivered a pivotal lecture to participants of the 53rd Pakistan Navy Staff Course. The lecture, held on March 27, 2024, via Zoom, marked a significant milestone in the longstanding relationship between the Nigerian and Pakistani navies.

    Under the theme “Challenges and Opportunities for the Nigerian Navy in the Twenty-First Century,” Vice Admiral Ogalla’s address served as a platform for insightful discourse on key maritime issues facing both nations. The engagement provided a forum for participants of the Pakistani Navy War College (PNWC) to gain valuable insights into the recent achievements and strategic priorities of the Nigerian Navy (NN).

    The lecture session exemplified the deepening collaboration between the Nigerian and Pakistani navies, with a focus on strengthening maritime security and advancing shared interests in the global maritime domain. Through exchanges of knowledge, expertise, and best practices, both navies aim to enhance their capabilities and contribute to regional and international maritime stability.

    Furthermore, the exchange programs between the Nigerian Navy and the PNWC have played a pivotal role in fostering mutual understanding and cooperation. Recent visits, such as the study tour to Nigeria by PNWC participants in February 2024, have provided valuable opportunities for bilateral engagement and knowledge sharing.

    In addition to these exchanges, the Nigerian Navy remains committed to facilitating ongoing collaboration through the exchange of Directing Staff (DS) between naval colleges. These programs not only bolster intellectual discourse but also serve as tangible indicators of the growing recognition of the Nigerian Navy’s role in global maritime security.

    As we look ahead, the Nigerian Navy reaffirms its dedication to building enduring partnerships with maritime stakeholders worldwide. Through initiatives like the lecture delivered by Vice Admiral Ogalla, we seek to strengthen maritime collaboration, promote maritime safety and security, and contribute to the sustainable development of the maritime domain.

  • 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.

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