Category: News

  • INTER-AGENCY COLLABORATION: Navy Seizes, Hands Over Suspected Cannabis Sativa To NDLEA

    INTER-AGENCY COLLABORATION: Navy Seizes, Hands Over Suspected Cannabis Sativa To NDLEA

    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.

  • His Royal Majesty Gbolahan Akanbi Timson Praises Lagos CP Adegoke Fayoade For Establishing Crack Squad

    His Royal Majesty Gbolahan Akanbi Timson Praises Lagos CP Adegoke Fayoade For Establishing Crack Squad


    The traditional ruler of Shomolu/Bariga, His Royal Majesty Gbolahan Akanbi Timson, Jagunmolu III, has lauded the Commissioner of Police, CP Adegoke Fayoade, for establishing the Crack Squad Unit in his area. According to the monarch, the creation of the unit has significantly reduced crime and brought peace to a community previously plagued by various criminal activities.

    In a statement, the royal father expressed his gratitude for the positive impact of the Crack Squad. “As the traditional ruler of Shomolu/Bariga, I can boldly say that since the creation of the Crack Squad Unit here, crimes and criminality, especially cultism, have reduced in my community,” he said. He particularly praised the strategic selection of personnel, highlighting the effectiveness of CSP Adams Uba, who heads the unit.

    His Royal Majesty Timson extended his appreciation to CP Fayoade, stating, “I want to thank you, CP, for the wisdom in creating the Crack Squad Unit in my area. Your choice of CSP Adams Uba has allowed us to live in peace and sleep with our two eyes closed.” He further likened CP Fayoade’s strategic deployment of personnel to the leadership style of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, emphasizing the importance of placing the right individuals in key positions.

    The traditional ruler concluded his commendation with a prayer for CP Fayoade’s continued success. “May God in his mercy and infinite wisdom endow you with all it takes to reach the peak of your career as IGP.”

    The establishment of the Crack Squad Unit in Shomolu/Bariga is seen as a significant step towards enhancing security and maintaining public order in the area.

  • Rivers State Residents Commend Police Neutrality, Proactiveness Amid Crisis

    Rivers State Residents Commend Police Neutrality, Proactiveness Amid Crisis

    Amid escalating political tensions in Rivers State, residents have praised the Police Command for its professionalism, neutrality, and proactive measures. The commendations came after police took control of the 23 Local Council Secretariats on Tuesday night to prevent a breakdown of law and order. The move followed a dangerous power struggle between incumbent Governor Siminalayi Fubara and loyalists of his predecessor, Nyesom Wike.

    Tragically, the violence has already claimed two lives: Police Inspector David Mgbada and vigilante member Samuel Nwigwe, both killed during a clash in Eberi-Omuma in Omuma LGA over the tenure of elected officials of the 23 local governments.

    Tensions soared after the governor announced the termination of the 23 council chairmen’s tenure, instructing administrative heads to take over until elections are conducted. This pronouncement sparked protests from youths enforcing the governor’s order, conflicting with a law passed by the state House of Assembly that extended the council chairmen’s tenure by six months.

    A Court of Appeal order further complicated the situation by mandating that the status quo be maintained until the hearing of suits on the matter. The council chairmen and executives have vowed to stay on for another six months, citing the tenure extension law.

    Anticipating potential anarchy and its devastating consequences, Commissioner of Police Olatunji Disu ordered reinforced security and deployed operatives to all 23 LGAs to maintain law and order. Despite some public criticism alleging police interference in politics, many Rivers residents believe the police acted just in time to prevent chaos.

    “We are not going to be quiet and watch an ugly history repeat itself,” said Ogoni community leader Saviour Nebari, referencing the 2013 Rotimi Amaechi versus Nyesom Wike crisis. “Politicians should learn to resolve their issues without recourse to violence.”

    Prince Wiro Junior, National Coordinator of the Centre for Basic Rights Protection and Accountability Campaign, commended the police for their professionalism. “If not for the proactiveness of the CP, there would have been so much bloodshed in Rivers State yesterday,” he said.

    Prince Udemkwe, another resident, pointed out that accusations against the police from both factions indicate their neutrality. “For us, the ordinary residents in Rivers State, we are glad that the police have stayed proactive,” he noted.

    Police Public Relations Officer Grace Iringe-Koko defended the police’s actions, stating, “We are only doing our job as we are supposed to. We have a no-nonsense CP who has a track record of being professional. We will not take it lightly with anyone fomenting trouble in the state.”

    Condemning Tuesday’s violence, Inspector General of Police Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun directed the Commissioner of Police to enhance security measures and investigate the killings. The IG deployed the Force Intelligence Response Team (IRT) to assist in apprehending the killers and emphasized that attacks on police officers and security operatives would not be tolerated.

    “The Inspector General of Police calls on all residents and political stakeholders in the State to exercise restraint and seek peaceful means of resolving differences,” said Force Public Relations Officer ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi.

    As Rivers State navigates this turbulent period, the proactive measures by the police and calls for peace from residents underscore the importance of maintaining law and order for the state’s stability and progress.

  • NCS Intercepts Over N3.1b Illicit Drugs At Tin-Can Port

    NCS Intercepts Over N3.1b Illicit Drugs At Tin-Can Port


    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. 

  • Nigerian Navy Intercepts Human Trafficker, Seizes Smuggled Rice

    Nigerian Navy Intercepts Human Trafficker, Seizes Smuggled Rice


    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.

  • Vice Admiral Ogalla, Delta Governor Oborevwori, Others to Receive Prestigious Silent Heroes Awards

    Vice Admiral Ogalla, Delta Governor Oborevwori, Others to Receive Prestigious Silent Heroes Awards

    On Saturday, June 8, 2024, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, Chief of the Naval Staff; Rt. Hon. Sheriff F.O. Oborevwori, Governor of Delta State; Professor Leroy Chuma Edozien; IGP Kayode Egbetokun; and Pastor Ikechukwu Edmund Ezeobi, will be among the distinguished individuals honored at the sixth edition of the Nigerian Silent Heroes Award (NSHA). The ceremony will take place at Cabana Hall, Wells Carlton Hotel, Asokoro, Abuja.

    Vice Admiral Ogalla is recognized as a Silent Hero in Maritime Security, while Governor Oborevwori is honored for Infrastructure Development. Professor Edozien will be acknowledged for his contributions to Medicine and Politics, reflecting his dedication to Nigeria’s development and his selfless service to humanity. IGP Egbetokun is celebrated for his achievements in Policing, and Pastor Ezeobi is recognized for over two decades of pastoral work both locally and internationally, earning him the title of Silent Hero of Faith.

    The NSHA, hosted annually by SHA Initiative, aims to recognize and express society’s gratitude to individuals who have made significant contributions through their dedication and silent service. Founded by journalist and humanitarian Odita Sunday-Udemaguna, the initiative highlights unsung heroes whose efforts drive the nation’s progress.

    “In our larger society, there are men and women who are silently working assiduously behind the scenes to oil our nation’s wheel of progress,” Sunday-Udemaguna said. “These people are Silent Heroes in their own right but have largely remained unsung and under-celebrated. They are the reason our nation has made the modest progress recorded in different spheres in contemporary times.”

    Other notable awardees include Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle, Minister of State for Defence, recognized for Governance; Alhaji Jibrin Baba Nadace, Director General of Voice of Nigeria, honored in Journalism; and Dr. Awele Elumelu, CEO of Avon Medical Practice, acknowledged in Medicine.

    The ceremony will also honor Mr. Dozy Mmobuosi, CEO of Tingo Inc., for Fintech & Agro Development in Africa; ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi for Police Image Management; Dr. Ejikeme Odumegwu Owelle for Philanthropy; and Alex Nwankwo, CEO of Amity Global Network, for Image Management. Evelyn Usman, Assistant Crime Editor at Vanguard Newspaper, will be celebrated for Print Media Journalism.

    Additional awardees include:
    – Ogbu Johnson Chinecherem as Silent Hero in Nollywood
    – Mr. Jason Bent for Administration
    – Professor Muhammad Shafi’u Abdullahi for Education
    – Mrs. Judith Ogunleye (Ofulue) for Community Development and Philanthropy
    – Mr. Monye Lucky Ehiwogwu for Private Security Practice
    – Shina Philips for Management
    – Dr. Osadebe Osakwe for Business and Philanthropy
    – Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko for Human Rights
    – Chief Dr. Aisha Tosan for Media
    – Yushau Shuaib for Security Advocacy
    – Ebaide Omiunu for Climate Change & Social Impact
    – Haliru Nababa, Controller General of Nigerian Correctional Service, for Public Service
    – Moses Amiebenomo for Business & Enterprise

    Zenith Bank will be recognized for contributions to the Banking Sector, Prince Martins for SME Development & Job Creation, Chief Nwoye-oba Chinedu Jonathan, CEO of Lamido Motors, for Business and Enterprise, Christian Ogbonna for Business & Enterprise in Manchester, Christopher Okonkwo for Cyber Security & Artificial Intelligence, and Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, Governor of Kogi State, for Security Management.

    The event will also feature the unveiling of a magazine and a compendium titled “Nigeria’s Silent Heroes Volume 11,” documenting the achievements of these individuals across diverse fields such as Education, Security, Journalism, Industry, Oil and Gas, Real Estate, and Governance.

  • Federal Operations Unit Zone ‘B’ Intercepts N3.96 Billion Worth Of Pangolin Scales In Kebbi State

    Federal Operations Unit Zone ‘B’ Intercepts N3.96 Billion Worth Of Pangolin Scales In Kebbi State

    The Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone B of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has announced a significant anti-smuggling operation, intercepting a consignment of pangolin scales valued at N3,955,596,000.

    The operation, led by Comptroller Ahmadu Bello Shuaibu, marks a notable success in the ongoing efforts to combat illegal wildlife trading and smuggling activities in the region.

    Speaking at a media briefing, Comptroller Shuaibu highlighted the recent achievements of the unit since the previous briefing on May 21, 2024.

    He reiterated the unit’s commitment to curbing illegal trading in endangered wildlife species, emphasizing the importance of protecting such species under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), to which Nigeria is a signatory.

    The seizure took place on May 24, 2024, following actionable intelligence that led operatives to a hideout, referred to as the “slaughter house,” in the suburbs of Zuru Town, Kebbi State.

    The operation, conducted at approximately 1600hrs, resulted in the discovery and confiscation of 445.45 kg of pangolin scales. The contraband was subsequently transported to the FOU Zone B headquarters in Kaduna for further examination.

    A suspect was arrested in connection with the seizure, while the main suspect remains at large. Comptroller Shuaibu assured that the unit, in collaboration with other agencies, is actively pursuing the main suspect to ensure they are brought to justice. The offence contravenes Section 55 (1) paragraphs C and I of the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023.

    Comptroller Shuaibu attributed the success of the operation to robust intelligence sharing between the NCS and wildlife authorities, coupled with the determination and strategic execution by the operatives.

    He underscored the broader implications of such illegal activities, noting that trafficking in endangered species often serves as a cover for money laundering and the procurement of drugs, arms, and other illegal merchandise.

    In his address, Comptroller Shuaibu called on the public to support the NCS in its fight against smuggling, urging collective efforts to safeguard the nation’s wildlife and uphold the vision of Nigeria’s founding fathers.

    He affirmed that the unit will continue to enforce federal government policies in line with international best practices, undeterred by any opposition.

    The Comptroller concluded by commending the operatives for their resilience and ensuring a casualty-free operation, reinforcing the NCS’s commitment to protecting Nigeria’s natural heritage and maintaining security within the region.

  • WMC: Nigeria Customs Service Seizes Cannabis Sativa, Foreign Rice, Others Worth Over N155 Million, Hands Over Drugs To NDLEA

    WMC: Nigeria Customs Service Seizes Cannabis Sativa, Foreign Rice, Others Worth Over N155 Million, Hands Over Drugs To NDLEA


    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.

  • Prof Alexander Okwuashi Advocates Economic Reforms To Combat Rising Business Costs

    Prof Alexander Okwuashi Advocates Economic Reforms To Combat Rising Business Costs


    At the 20th Anniversary Lecture and Awards Ceremony of People’s Forum Magazine & Online, Professor Alexander Favour Okwuashi, Ph.D., FCIS, Proprietor and Founder of the Certified Institute of Shipping of Nigeria and Coastal Polytechnic Magbon, Lagos, delivered a compelling speech on “Business Transactions and Rising Cost: The Way Forward.”

    In his address, Professor Okwuashi highlighted several factors contributing to escalating business costs in Nigeria from 2000 to 2024. He pointed to government economic policies, scarcity of foreign currencies, systemic corruption, lack of sustainable productivity in local industries, falling oil prices, high production costs, and unstable power supply as critical issues.

    Professor Okwuashi outlined several key recommendations to tackle these challenges. He suggested re-establishing a Marketing Board to implement price control policies, ensuring commodity prices are regulated and not arbitrarily increased. Additionally, he urged the Federal Government, through the Central Bank of Nigeria, to ensure foreign exchange availability for importers, facilitating the importation of goods at minimal costs. An effective monetary policy to boost the Naira’s value was recommended, aiming to enhance the purchasing power of the average citizen. Policies to stop inflationary trends and create wealth and productivity were emphasized as crucial for economic stability.

    He called for a revolutionary change in transportation to reduce the cost of goods and services, including reviewing the impacts of oil subsidy removal and implementing genuine palliatives to mitigate these effects. Floating policies to support local industries through steady and affordable energy supply, improved infrastructure, and access to raw materials were highlighted as vital. Stimulating entrepreneurial skills among youths to boost job creation and wealth was seen as essential for sustaining a competitive market. Establishing mechanisms for periodic evaluation of market forces and formulating strategies to address adverse trends were proposed. Additionally, the media should expose anti-economic practices, inform the public on price dynamics, and guide consumers on obtaining goods at fair prices.

    In conclusion, Professor Okwuashi emphasized the importance of reintroducing the modified cabotage law to enhance employment, shipbuilding, and capacity building within the maritime economy. He advocated for local content improvement in the shipping and oil and gas sectors, and for cabotage vessel funding to support low-cost transportation and reduce road traffic congestion. These measures, he argued, would significantly boost the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Professor Okwuashi expressed optimism that if these suggestions are critically addressed by the federal government, there would be a notable reduction in the prices of goods and services. He extended his gratitude to the People’s Forum organizers for the opportunity to speak on such a pertinent issue.

    During the ceremony, Comptroller Ahmadu Shuaibu was honored with an award for being the most outstanding customs controller, recognizing his exceptional contributions to the field.

  • NIGERIAN NAVY @68: Sanwo-Olu Expresses Gratitude To Nigerian Navy For Outstanding Service

    NIGERIAN NAVY @68: Sanwo-Olu Expresses Gratitude To Nigerian Navy For Outstanding Service


    Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State has expressed profound gratitude to the Nigerian Navy for their unwavering commitment and invaluable contributions to the nation’s security. During the 2024 Nigerian Navy Week Celebration Ceremonial Sunset/Reunion Dinner, held at the Naval Dockyard Parade Ground in Victoria Island, Lagos, Sanwo-Olu acknowledged the Navy’s efforts in creating a safe environment for citizens.

    Represented by Deputy Governor Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, Sanwo-Olu stated, “The entire country owes the Nigerian Navy a debt of gratitude for their invaluable services, which include protecting waterways, maritime infrastructure, preventing piracy, and curbing oil theft.”

    He extended special appreciation on behalf of Lagos State, adding, “We owe you a lot of gratitude and pray that God will continue to be with you.”

    Sanwo-Olu also recognized the contributions of retired Naval Officers, appreciating their ongoing support and encouragement to active personnel.

    In his welcome address, Chief of Naval Staff Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla highlighted the Navy’s achievements over its 68-year history. “The Nigerian Navy has grown to be the 5th largest navy in Africa, with over 48 capital ships, and at all times, more than 70 percent of these ships are operational,” Ogalla noted.

    He detailed the Navy’s advancements, including the acquisition of helicopters and air assets that enhance fleet readiness. He proudly stated that the Nigerian Navy boasts the most sophisticated maritime domain awareness capability in the world, incorporating both coastal and over-the-horizon radars.

    Ogalla emphasized the Navy’s success in reducing oil theft and criminal activities in Nigerian waters over the past eleven months. “Prior to 2022, Nigeria was listed as one of the piracy-prone countries in the world. However, with the collaboration of the Nigerian Air Force, Army, and Police, we have eliminated piracy to the extent that the International Maritime Bureau has delisted Nigeria from the list of piracy-prone nations,” he explained.

    The Sunset Dinner, marking the end of the naval year, celebrated these achievements and the Navy’s dedication to its mission. The event underscored the Navy’s pivotal role in ensuring national security and the collective gratitude of the Nigerian people.

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