Category: Nigerian Navy

  • Nigerian Navy Gifts Bungalow for Widow of Fallen Hero

    Nigerian Navy Gifts Bungalow for Widow of Fallen Hero


    In a heartfelt gesture of support and recognition for the sacrifices made by military personnel, the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, has provided a two-bedroom semi-detached bungalow to the widow of Leading Regulator Suleiman MK, a naval hero who lost his life in service to the nation. The presentation took place at the Navy Estate in Karshi, Abuja, reflecting the Nigerian Navy’s commitment to the welfare of its personnel and their families.

    Leading Regulator Suleiman MK, a distinguished member of the Nigerian Navy, was killed in action during Operation WHIRL STROKE in Niger State on August 13, 2023. His death is a profound loss, not only to his immediate family but also to the Nigerian Navy and the Armed Forces. The provision of housing for his widow serves as a tangible expression of gratitude and support for his ultimate sacrifice.

    Representing Vice Admiral Ogalla at the presentation, Rear Admiral Mohammed Yakubu Dahiru, the Director of Veteran Affairs, emphasized the importance of supporting the families of fallen heroes. He reiterated that the Nigerian Navy would continue to prioritize the welfare of its personnel, ensuring that their sacrifices are honored and their families are cared for.

    Vice Admiral Ogalla’s vision of a highly motivated and professional naval force is brought to life through initiatives like this. By providing shelter and other essential welfare benefits, the Nigerian Navy aims to ensure that its personnel feel secure and valued, both during and after their service.

    The presentation of the bungalow to Suleiman MK’s widow highlights the Navy’s commitment to not leaving any family behind, offering comfort and succour to those who have lost loved ones in the line of duty. This initiative underscores the Navy’s dedication to upholding the morale and welfare of its personnel, which is crucial for maintaining a robust and effective defense force.

  • COMPTROLLER NNADI: Security, Lighting Issues Hamper Night Operations at Tin Can Port

    COMPTROLLER NNADI: Security, Lighting Issues Hamper Night Operations at Tin Can Port

    Dera Nnadi, the Customs Area Comptroller of Tin Can Port, has shed light on the slow pace of night operations at Tin Can Port, attributing it to significant security and logistical challenges. Speaking at the Maritime Reporters’ Association of Nigeria (MARAN) International Press Center on Friday, Nnadi addressed concerns over the efficiency and frequency of nighttime activities at the port.

    Nnadi explained that the decision to initiate night operations was driven by necessity but has faced multiple obstacles. “Last year’s election significantly impacted our operations,” he noted. “This year, we needed a different approach to tackle ongoing issues, particularly security concerns.”

    A critical issue has been the inaccessibility of the port access road, which has hindered efficient movement for nearly two decades. “For 19 years, the port access road has been almost impassable, making movements across the corridors of the port extremely difficult. Stakeholders became vulnerable to attacks during their commute,” Nnadi stated.

    Reflecting on his tenure as a senior customs officer, Nnadi mentioned a past proposal to use waterways to alleviate road congestion. Despite some success, congestion issues at the port persisted. Upon his return as Area Comptroller, Nnadi, alongside Tin Can port manager Steve Egede, engaged in multiple meetings with management and received crucial support from the Nigerian Police to address these issues.

    Efforts to create public awareness about the dire state of the port access road were initiated, with the media playing a crucial role. “I personally made calls and encouraged media coverage to highlight the need to decongest this road. The media played a crucial role in raising awareness about the issue,” Nnadi said.

    These collaborative efforts eventually led to the clearing of the road, allowing for a safer commute for stakeholders. To capitalize on this development, the port extended its operational hours, starting with overnight container scanning and expanding to include physical examinations and other services.

    However, Nnadi emphasized the importance of infrastructure and security in sustaining night operations. “To make night operations viable, we need to light up the port and its corridors and ensure robust security measures. These steps are essential to maintaining the efficiency and safety of our operations,” he explained.

    Nnadi concluded by stressing that the slow pace of night operations is a strategic response to long-standing challenges rather than a temporary measure.

  • Navy Rescues Human Trafficking Victims, Arrests Stowaways In String Of Operations

    Navy Rescues Human Trafficking Victims, Arrests Stowaways In String Of Operations

    In a series of operations spanning from July 9 to July 13, 2024, the Nigerian Navy has demonstrated its unwavering commitment to maritime security by rescuing eight female victims of human trafficking, saving two drowning fishermen, and arresting eight male stowaways. Additionally, a sea robbery attempt was thwarted within this period.

    On July 9, the Quick Response Team of the Nigerian Navy Forward Operating Base (FOB) Badagry intercepted a wooden passenger boat carrying eight females aged 18-23 en route to the Benin Republic. Upon interrogation, it was discovered that they were victims of human trafficking. The rescued victims were handed over to the National Agency for Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) for further investigation to identify the trafficking syndicate involved.

    In another incident on July 10, personnel from the Nigerian Navy FOB Ibaka in Akwa Ibom State intercepted suspected sea robbers attempting to rob a supply vessel along the Uyenghe River in Mbo Local Government Area. The robbers engaged the Navy troops with gunfire but were forced to retreat into the creeks after a heavy response from the Navy, effectively foiling the robbery attempt.

    On July 12, personnel from the Nigerian Navy FOB Lekki rescued two fishermen who were drowning around the Lekki Anchorage Area, approximately 10 nautical miles from the Dangote Refinery in Ibeju-Lekki Local Government Area of Lagos State. The fishermen’s boat had capsized due to rough sea conditions.

    In a separate operation on July 13, the patrol team of the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Beecroft arrested eight suspected stowaways in two speedboats attempting to board MV Northernlight along the Lagos Channel. Five of the suspects admitted they intended to travel abroad by boarding the vessel. The suspects and their speedboats were handed over to the Nigerian Immigration Service, Lagos State Port, and Marine Command for further investigation. NNS Beecroft has arrested 33 stowaways between January and July 2024.

    Commodore A. Adams-Aliu, Director of Information, reiterated the Navy’s dedication under the leadership of Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, to maintaining safe and secure Nigerian waters for legitimate economic activities. The Navy urges all operators and stakeholders within the maritime domain to comply with the law and warns against engaging in illegal activities.

    The public is requested to be informed about these developments as the Nigerian Navy continues to protect and safeguard the nation’s territorial waters.

  • OIL THEFT: Nigerian Navy Extends Operation Delta Sanity

    OIL THEFT: Nigerian Navy Extends Operation Delta Sanity

    The Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, has announced the extension of the Nigerian Navy’s Operation Delta Sanity by 90 days. Launched on January 6, 2024, the operation aims to combat oil theft and related crimes in alignment with the President’s directive to eradicate crude oil theft and boost Nigeria’s oil production for economic improvement.

    Operation Delta Sanity has seen the deployment of personnel, platforms, helicopters, and UAVs for aggressive surveillance and interdiction operations across the Niger Delta. The initiative has achieved significant successes, including the recovery of stolen products, dismantling of illegal refining sites, arrests of suspects, and seizures of stolen goods. Due to these achievements, the operation was previously extended in April 2024 for another 90 days.

    During a press briefing on July 9, 2024, the Commander of the Task Group, Rear Admiral Samson Bura, reported that since the April extension, 22 suspects have been arrested, and about 122 illegal refinery sites were deactivated. Additionally, large quantities of crude oil and illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil were seized. The Navy also deactivated 57 wooden boats, 45 dugout pits, and 65 storage tanks while arresting six vessels. Several items and equipment used in illegal refinery operations were also seized.

    Given these ongoing successes, Vice Admiral Ogalla approved the extension of Operation Delta Sanity for another 90 days, starting from July 10, 2024. The announcement was made onboard the Nigerian Navy Ship Okpabana in Onne, Rivers State, by the Chief of Training and Operations, Rear Admiral Olusegun Ferreira, representing the Chief of the Naval Staff.

    Vice Admiral Ogalla expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his unwavering support to the Armed Forces, particularly the Nigerian Navy.

    The public is encouraged to be informed of this development, as the Navy continues its efforts to secure Nigeria’s maritime domain and combat illegal activities effectively.

  • NN Celebrates 68th Anniversary With Medical Rhapsody

    NN Celebrates 68th Anniversary With Medical Rhapsody


    The Nigerian Navy marked its 68th anniversary with a medical rhapsody aimed at fostering a stronger relationship between the military and the civilian populace. Mrs. Olufunke Adesanya, representing the Nigerian Navy Officers’ Wives Association (NOWA) President, Mrs. Ijeoma Blessing Ogalla, emphasized the importance of bridging the gap between the military and the community.

    The event, held at Tego Field, showcased the Navy’s commitment to providing high-quality medical facilities and benefits to the local community. Medical personnel were on hand to conduct comprehensive check-ups and offer vital medical advice to attendees. Services provided included de-worming, eye examinations, blood pressure monitoring, distribution of medicated glasses, mosquito nets, and more.

    Speaking on behalf of Rear Admiral Mustapha Hassan, Flag Commanding Officer Western Naval Command, Surgery Capt. Emmanuel Olumuyiwa Akinyinka, stressed the significance of fostering good civil-military relations. He highlighted the Navy’s corporate social responsibility initiatives aimed at supporting the communities where they operate.

    Capt. Akinyinka emphasized the need for a harmonious relationship between the military and the community, emphasizing that such partnerships are vital for the Navy’s effectiveness in carrying out its operations. The medical rhapsody, organized not only at Tego Field but also at other naval commands across the country, underscores the Navy’s commitment to giving back to the society and promoting a cordial relationship with the local populace.

    The event also saw the participation of Chinese colleagues who arrived with their ships for maritime exercises scheduled for later in the week. Eye examinations, vital sign checks, and medical health talks were among the services provided to attendees, further highlighting the Navy’s dedication to the well-being of the community.

    As the Nigerian Navy commemorates its 68th anniversary, initiatives like the medical rhapsody serve as a testament to its commitment to supporting and engaging with the communities it serves.

  • NAVTRAC Command Hosts NOWA Delegation To Strengthen Collaboration

    NAVTRAC Command Hosts NOWA Delegation To Strengthen Collaboration

    The Naval Training Command (NAVTRAC) recently welcomed a delegation from the Naval Officers Wives Association (NOWA) NAVTRAC Chapter in a courtesy visit aimed at fostering collaboration and strengthening ties between the two entities.

    The visit, which took place at NAVTRAC’s headquarters, provided an opportunity for NAVTRAC officials and NOWA representatives to engage in discussions on mutual interests and initiatives.

    Rear Admiral Istifanus Mu’azu ALBARA, the Flag Officer Commanding NAVTRAC, extended a warm welcome to the NOWA delegation, emphasizing the critical role of NOWA as a support group for naval officers and their families. He commended NOWA for its longstanding commitment to promoting love, harmony, and social-economic development within the naval community and beyond.

    During the visit, Mrs. Joy Albara, the Coordinator of NOWA NAVTRAC COMMAND, highlighted NOWA’s key objectives and initiatives, including its focus on supporting naval families, promoting civil-military relations, and contributing to community development.

    She expressed NOWA’s readiness to collaborate with NAVTRAC in various areas, including community outreach programs, cooperative societies, and educational scholarships.

    Mrs. Albara announced NOWA’s plans to relocate its Port Harcourt branch under the umbrella of NOWA NAVTRAC COMMAND, following NAVTRAC’s upcoming move to Port Harcourt. This strategic alignment aims to facilitate closer cooperation between NOWA and NAVTRAC in implementing community-based initiatives and outreach activities in the Port Harcourt region.

    In response, Rear Admiral ALBARA affirmed NAVTRAC’s commitment to supporting NOWA’s initiatives and fostering a harmonious relationship between the command and its host communities.

    He commended NOWA for its dedication to serving naval families and society at large, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in achieving shared goals.

    The courtesy visit concluded with assurances of continued dialogue and collaboration between NOWA and NAVTRAC, with both parties expressing optimism about the positive impact of their partnership on community development and civil-military relations.

    The visit highlights the strong bond between NAVTRAC and NOWA, underscoring their shared commitment to service, compassion, and community engagement.

  • Navy Captures Fugitive Vessel MV BLU-SHARK In National Waters

    Navy Captures Fugitive Vessel MV BLU-SHARK In National Waters

    The Nigerian Navy (NN) successfully arrested the vessel MV BLU-SHARK, under the coordination of the Multinational Maritime Co-ordination Center Zone D. The vessel, bearing IMO number 8767783, was apprehended by the Nigerian Navy Ship OSE (NNS OSE) at coordinates Latitude 040 49 929’E, Longitude 008017 602’E near Calabar, following an alert about its escape from Port Gentil, Gabon without proper customs clearance on May 2.

    This operation is a part of the ongoing collaboration under the Yaoundé Code of Conduct, aimed at enhancing maritime security in the Gulf of Guinea and supporting the nation’s Blue Economy. The Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, commended the crew of NNS OSE for their professionalism and reaffirmed the Navy’s dedication to combating transnational maritime crimes.

    The NN will conduct initial investigations to determine the legitimacy of the allegations against MV BLU-SHARK and proceed as required by regional maritime laws.

    Commodore A Adams-Aliu, on behalf of the Chief of Naval Staff, has requested the dissemination of this information to the public to highlight the effective maritime governance and security measures enforced by the Nigerian Navy.

  • NewcrossEP Appeals for NUPRC Aid Following Suspension Over Bunkering Allegations

    NewcrossEP Appeals for NUPRC Aid Following Suspension Over Bunkering Allegations

    …Alleged oil theft vessel MT Prestigious still under Nigerian Navy custody”.

    On May 6, 2024, Newcross Exploration & Production Limited formally requested the intervention of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) following a suspension of their operations. The suspension came after the IGP Illegal Bunkering Team’s visit to the MT Prestigious on May 2, which is part of NewcrossEP’s oil barging operations in Bonny.

    The IGP team, operating under “Operation Tantita,” had alleged involvement of the MT Prestigious in illegal bunkering activities without providing clear evidence. Written testimonies from the vessel’s captain and representatives from Donna Spectre and NewcrossEP asserted that the vessel’s sole purpose was to transport crude to Bonny Terminal SBM3.

    Following these allegations, the Nigerian Navy was instructed to halt operations on MT Prestigious WD and MT Montagu pending further investigation. This directive has had significant repercussions, prompting NewcrossEP to underline the urgency of NUPRC’s involvement to ensure due process and mitigate threats to its operations.

    The current suspension of operations risks considerable financial impacts, including the halting of over 100,000 barrels per day in crude production, interruptions in gas deliveries essential for both domestic and export markets, and disruptions in terminal operations. These setbacks threaten the operational continuity of various stakeholders dependent on this crude evacuation route.

    Victor Sodje, Managing Director of NewcrossEP, emphasized the company’s readiness to cooperate with legal authorities but stressed the critical need for swift action from NUPRC to prevent substantial national economic losses. The formal communication also included notifications to the National Security Advisor, Chief of Defense Staff, Chief of Naval Staff, and the CEO of NNPC Limited, highlighting the broad spectrum of concerns related to the ongoing investigation.

  • RIVERS STATE: Nigerian Navy Rescues Over 250 Passengers From Capsized Boat

    RIVERS STATE: Nigerian Navy Rescues Over 250 Passengers From Capsized Boat

    In a heroic late-night operation, Nigerian Navy personnel successfully rescued more than 250 individuals from a capsized passenger boat in Rivers State. The incident occurred around 10 p.m. local time on April 28, 2024, along the Cawthorne Channel.

    The vessel, identified as MV PRECIOUS EMMANUEL, embarked from a local market in the Sangana area of Bayelsa State, destined for Rivers State. Tragically, the boat encountered severe stormy conditions and struck an underwater wreck, compromising its hull integrity and causing it to overturn. The boat, described as a three-deck wooden “Large Cotonou Boat,” lacked essential lifesaving equipment, and none of the passengers were wearing life jackets at the time of the accident.

    Naval Security Station (NSS) 023 personnel, stationed along the channel, responded promptly to the emergency, ensuring that no lives were lost in the mishap. This swift and effective rescue underscores the Navy’s commitment to maritime safety, in accordance with the Strategic Directive issued by the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, aiming for a secure maritime environment within Nigeria and the Gulf of Guinea.

    Further emphasizing the critical importance of safety gear, the Nigerian Navy reiterated the need for local maritime operators to equip vessels with life jackets, life buoys, and other lifesaving devices. The proper provision and use of such equipment are crucial for the safety of all maritime travelers.

    Commodore A. Adams-Aliu, Director of Naval Information, affirmed the Navy’s dedication to safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime boundaries and ensuring safe passage for all legitimate maritime activities. The Navy continues to monitor and respond to maritime distress calls as part of its broader mission to protect and serve the nation’s interests at sea.

  • NN Celebrates Batch 35 Graduates In Colorful Passing Out Parade

    NN Celebrates Batch 35 Graduates In Colorful Passing Out Parade


    The Nigerian Navy marked a significant milestone on April 27 with the graduation of 1,486 trainees from the Basic Training School, Batch 35. The ceremony took place in Onne and was attended by several dignitaries, highlighting the importance of the event in bolstering the nation’s maritime defense capabilities.

    The Honourable Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle, served as the Reviewing Officer for the day’s proceedings, receiving a warm welcome from the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, upon his arrival.

    The graduates, consisting of 1,240 males and 246 females, underwent six months of intensive training, which included seamanship, boat handling, rifle drills, and unarmed combat among other disciplines. Their training prepares them to effectively manage diverse challenges in maritime security.

    The Passing Out Parade (POP) was not only a demonstration of military discipline and prowess but also a colorful celebration of the new careers these young men and women are about to embark on. The event included a march past in both slow and quick time and featured a silent drill display that showcased the precision and discipline instilled in the trainees.

    Dr. Matawalle, addressing the gathering, congratulated the graduates and highlighted the importance of their commitment to national service. He also presented awards to outstanding trainees, acknowledging their exceptional performance during training.

    The ceremony was also graced by representatives of the Executive Governors of Rivers and Akwa Ibom states, the Chairman of the House Committee on Defence, representatives of the Service Chiefs, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, and Principal Staff Officers from both Defence and Naval Headquarters.

    This event not only marks the culmination of rigorous training for these sailors but also signifies their readiness to defend and serve the nation with honor and loyalty. As they take their oath of allegiance, they are reminded of the great responsibilities they bear in securing Nigeria’s maritime borders.

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