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.
Category: Nigerian Navy
-
Nigerian Navy Uncovers Illegal Fuel Depot With 65,000 Litres of Automotive Gasoline Oil In Ilasun Lekki
-
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.
-
REAR ADMIRAL PATRICK NWATU’S LEGACY: Transformative Leadership Marks A Decade At The Helm Of Naval Training Command
In a heartfelt valedictory speech during the farewell parade at the Naval Training Command on Thursday, February 29, 2024, Rear Admiral Patrick Chibueze Nwatu, the 38th Flag Officer Commanding (FOC), expressed gratitude for the rare privilege of leading the largest command in the Nigerian Navy for the past 10 months.
Acknowledging the significance of the command’s oversight of professional training schools and colleges, Rear Admiral Nwatu emphasized the transformative journey embarked upon since assuming office in April 2023.
He outlined his command philosophy, focusing on realistic training, technology optimization, and the certification of professional courses to enhance the capabilities of officers and ratings in facing national challenges.
During his tenure, Rear Admiral Nwatu prioritized a holistic review of the Navy’s training policy, introducing initiatives like practical sailing in curricula to improve professional competences.
He highlighted the accreditation of various courses, amendments to curricula, and efforts to meet statutory requirements, ensuring that Nigerian Navy graduates compete globally.
Technology penetration in Nigeria Navy professional training was also a key focus, with initiatives such as reactivating the NAVTRAC E-Library and Nigerian Navy Ship QUORRA ECDIS simulator.
The introduction of consequence management and recognition for achievements aimed to foster discipline and excellence within the command.
Rear Admiral Nwatu commended the NNPRS, NNLC, NNCAF, and NNCHS for their accreditation efforts, with a hopeful outlook for NNCETT to become a full-fledged college of education.
The speech also highlighted infrastructural developments, including the inaugural NAVTRAC games and projects funded by the Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla.
Expressing gratitude to sister services, security agencies, and maritime stakeholders for cooperation, Rear Admiral Nwatu credited the collective efforts of commanders, commandants, and principal staff for the achievements during his tenure.
He urged continued support for his successor, Rear Admiral Istifanus Albara, and encouraged NAVTRAC staff and students to contribute to the success of the new FOC.
In a touching moment, Rear Admiral Nwatu thanked his wife, Mrs. Adarenma Nwatu, for her unwavering support, and acknowledged the support of NOWA/NARAWA, NAVTRAC Command.
The speech concluded with appreciation for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu through the CNS, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, and a wish for God’s grace in his new responsibilities.
As Rear Admiral Nwatu bows out, the Naval Training Command looks to the future, building upon the foundation laid during his tenure for a continued pursuit of excellence in professional training.
-
Rear Admiral Ayodeji Olugbode Pioneers Nigeria’s Hydrographic Advancement, Maritime Growth
In a commendable display of leadership, Rear Admiral Ayodeji Olumide Olugbode has been steering the course as the Hydrographer of the Nigerian Navy and the President of the Nigerian Hydrographic Society (NHS). Boasting double degrees in Physics and Hydrography, along with Masters in Hydrography and Strategic Studies, Rear Admiral Olugbode has exemplified expertise in strategic leadership, digital transformation, and change management.Since assuming office in June 2023, he has actively enhanced Nigeria’s hydrographic capabilities, contributing to maritime safety and security, thereby fueling the nation’s economic growth. Under his guidance, the Nigerian Navy Hydrographic Office (NNHO) has played a pivotal role in conducting hydrographic operations, collaborating with maritime stakeholders, and contributing significant bathymetric data to the global Seabed 2030 Project.
Notably, Rear Admiral Olugbode has elevated the profile of the NHS, advocating for hydrography in Nigeria and the wider Gulf of Guinea region. His commitment to the Blue Economy is evident through active participation in discussions and initiatives to harness Nigeria’s maritime sector potential.
The senior officer’s emphasis on collaboration has resulted in strengthened ties with institutions like the University of Lagos, Shell Companies in Nigeria, and the West African Gas Pipeline Company. These partnerships focus on capacity building, research and development, and accurate representation of navigational products.
In a groundbreaking move, the NNHO, led by Rear Admiral Olugbode, initiated talks with international scientists and researchers to conduct oceanographic surveys in the Gulf of Guinea. The aim is to address data shortages, understand oceanographic phenomena, and assess the scientific impacts of climate change on marine biodiversity.
Rear Admiral Olugbode’s commitment extends beyond professional realms, as demonstrated by sponsoring the Hydrographer’s Fishing Competition to promote aqua tourism, aqua culture, and sustainable fishing practices.
With an illustrious career, numerous commendations, and a relentless pursuit of professional development, Rear Admiral Ayodeji Olugbode stands as a beacon of excellence. His multifaceted approach encompasses leadership positions, educational achievements, and a keen focus on advancing Nigeria’s maritime capabilities for national prosperity.
Supported by Vice Admiral Ikechukwu Ogalla, Chief of the Naval Staff, Rear Admiral Olugbode continues to chart the course for Nigeria’s hydrography, firmly anchored in the belief that the nation’s maritime riches hold the key to economic growth and prosperity.
Source: Thisday Newspaper -
Navy Records Successes In Anti-Crude Oil Theft Operations
The Nigerian Navy’s Operation DELTA SANITY, aimed at combating crude oil theft and illegal oil bunkering, has reported continuous successes in its efforts from February 5 to February 26, 2024. Various naval platforms deployed for the operation have conducted aggressive patrols to address the ongoing challenges in Nigeria’s maritime environment.
During this period, multiple illegal refining sites (IRS), metal storage tanks, ovens, wooden boats, dugout pits, fibre boats, and pumping machines were targeted and appropriately handled. Notably, Forward Operating Base FORMOSO in Bayelsa State, on February 19, conducted anti-crude oil theft operations around Brass River, Akassa, Lagosgbene, Tebidaba, and Oyeregbene general areas. The operation led to the discovery of an illegal refining site and two wooden boats laden with 62.9 barrels (10,000 litres) of suspected stolen crude oil.
Forward Operating Base ESCRAVOS, on February 19, also carried out anti-crude oil theft operations around Aghor-Kutu Community in Warri Southern Local Government Area of Delta State. The operation revealed an illegal refining site, three ovens, one reservoir, one pumping machine, 10 jerricans, and 38 drums laden with 195.9 barrels (31,150 litres) of suspected stolen crude oil.
Nigerian Navy Ship PATHFINDER, during operations from February 20 to 23 around Abuloma, Abonnema, Woji, and Taraba jetty in Borikiri, Rivers State, raided a car wash used for storing illegally refined products. The team discovered an illegal refining site, seven ovens, 60 drums, and two reservoirs laden with about 120,000 litres of suspected illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil.
On February 21, Forward Operating Base IGBOKODA conducted anti-crude oil theft operations around Agadagba in Ese-Odo Local Government Area of Ondo State. The team discovered four wooden boats laden with 1,200 litres of products suspected to be stolen Automotive Gas Oil.
Nigerian Navy Ship SOROH patrol team, on February 21, intercepted two private vehicles conveying 79 sacks of product suspected to be illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil around Okarki general areas of Bayelsa State. Additionally, the team, in conjunction with NSS 030, intercepted five ovens, nine drums, 25 iron pipes, one pumping machine, and one wooden boat laden with about 1,500 litres of suspected illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil.
On February 22, Forward Operating Base BADAGRY patrol team conducted cordon and search operations around Agbojetho Akorin in Lagos State. The team discovered 9,000 litres of products suspected to be illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil in a building.
Furthermore, on the same day, Forward Operating Base IBAKA patrol team intercepted a large wooden boat from the Republic of Cameroon around Uyenghe in Ibaka area, Cross River State. The boat was laden with about 5,100 litres of product suspected to be illegally syphoned Premium Motor Spirit.
In summary, during the reviewed period, three illegal refining sites, 15 ovens, two reservoirs, eight wooden boats, and one fibre boat were appropriately handled. The Nigerian Navy’s anti-crude oil theft operations denied oil thieves approximately 55,120 barrels of suspected stolen crude oil, 141,200 litres of illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil, and 9,000 litres of illegally siphoned Premium Motor Spirit. The estimated value of the denied products amounts to N7,422,792,302.58.
The success of the Nigerian Navy’s operations demonstrates the effectiveness of Operation DELTA SANITY in curbing illegal activities and safeguarding the nation’s maritime environment. The Navy remains committed to its mission, contributing to national security and prosperity.
-
Navy Conducts Search, Rescue Exercise To Combat Boat Mishaps In Rivers
In response to the rising incidents of boat mishaps in the country, the Nigerian Navy, NNS Pathfinder under the Eastern Naval Command, executed a comprehensive search and rescue simulation exercise aimed at saving lives at sea and mitigating casualties associated with boat mishaps within the nation’s maritime domain.
Directed by the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, the exercise included collaboration with 10 other agencies, such as the Nigerian Airforce, Nigerian Army, Civil Defence, Police, NEMA, NIMASA, NIWA, NPA, the Rivers State Government, among others.
Commodore Desmond Igbo, the Naval Commander of NNS Pathfinder, highlighted the Navy’s commitment to protecting lives at sea alongside safeguarding the maritime environment. The simulation aimed to enhance the capabilities of various maritime stakeholders in emergency Search and Rescue (SAR) operations, encouraging the activation of the Rivers State Government’s Emergency SAR team.
Igbo emphasized the need for the Nigerian Navy to not only secure the maritime environment and assets but also fulfill its mandate to protect lives and properties. The simulation exercise involved Naval boats and ships deployed strategically in the creeks to respond promptly to emergencies.
Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, represented by Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu, commended the Nigerian Navy for organizing the exercise and hinted at plans to revitalize the State Emergency Management Agency. The Governor recalled the heroic act of Joe Blankson, a Rivers indigene who sacrificed his life to rescue 14 persons during a boat mishap in 2018.
Police Commissioner Olatunji Disu expressed the readiness of the marine Police to collaborate with other agencies in conducting rescue operations within the state’s waterways. He emphasized the crucial role of the marine Police in water operations.
The Port Harcourt Area Manager of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), Surv. Bernard Ekawu, reiterated NIWA’s commitment to safety on waterways, highlighting established search and rescue centers across all area offices. Ekawu emphasized adherence to safety protocols, including restrictions on sailing at night, boat overloading, and ensuring the use of life jackets.
South-South Zonal Coordinator of NEMA, Mr. Adebiyi Razaq, represented by Zonal Secretary Mr. Ochoche Samson Ochepo, mentioned ongoing advocacy and sensitization efforts by NEMA to reduce disasters on waterways.
The collaborative efforts of various agencies underscore a holistic approach towards enhancing safety and security on Nigeria’s waterways.
-
MARITIME SECURITY: Nigerian Navy Forge Stronger Ties With Nigeria Customs To Fight Smuggling In Nigerian Waters
In a significant move to bolster Nigeria’s maritime security, the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, met with the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, at the Nigerian Navy Headquarters in Abuja on Tuesday, 19 February 2024. The meeting aimed to reinforce the collaboration between the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and the Nigerian Navy (NN) in combating smuggling activities along the nation’s waterways.
Adeniyi emphasized the urgency of joint operations and the sharing of intelligence between the two forces as essential strategies in the fight against smuggling. He outlined the Customs Service’s plans to enhance its marine unit’s capabilities, including the maintenance of its ocean-going vessels, with the support of the Nigerian Navy.
Vice Admiral Ogalla welcomed the initiative, highlighting the Navy’s readiness to provide training facilities to Customs personnel and to assist in enforcing Customs laws. He also called for a review of the five-year-old Harmonized Standard Operating Procedure (HSOP) for monitoring maritime crimes, to reflect the current challenges and enhance operational efficiency.
This collaborative effort marks a pivotal step towards securing Nigeria’s maritime borders and underscores the commitment of both agencies to safeguard the nation’s economic and territorial integrity.
-
NN Thwarts Illegal Oil Refining Operation, Seizes 750,000 Litres of Stolen Diesel In Rivers State
In a strategic move to curb illegal oil refining activities, the Nigerian Navy has successfully uncovered an illicit refining site in the Abonema Wharf area of Port Harcourt City, Rivers State. Led by the Commander of Nigerian Navy Ship, NNS Pathfinder, Commodore Desmond Igbo, the operation resulted in the confiscation of approximately 750,000 litres of illegally refined Automated Gas Oil (AGO), commonly known as diesel.The raid, executed on Tuesday following a tip-off, aligns with the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla’s mandate to eradicate illegal oil bunkering and crude oil theft in the Niger Delta and other parts of the nation.
Speaking to journalists after the operation, Commodore Desmond Igbo emphasized the economic sabotage and environmental degradation associated with illegal oil bunkering. He stated, “This is another illegal oil bunkering site in Port Harcourt. As you can see, we have lots of drums fully loaded with this illegally refined products. We also have some loaded in the bags too. Here, we have not less than 750,000 litres of AGO stolen by criminals stocked here.”Highlighting the danger posed by such operations within the city, Commodore Igbo stated, “Apart from being saboteurs of the nation’s economy by stealing these oil, it is also an act of environmental degradation. They also constitute danger to the citizens and properties of people around here because, if there is any form of fire outbreak, it will burn down the entire community.”
He reassured the commitment of the naval forces to persist in their efforts, despite challenges and attempts at sabotage. Commodore Igbo affirmed, “The Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogala has given us this mandate to go to the creeks, the water and the land to make sure that crude oil theft in Niger Delta is put to an end. We will not relent and we won’t be deterred even with all forms of sabotage and blackmails.”
The Commander urged those involved in illegal activities to seek legal means of livelihood, emphasizing the negative impact on the nation’s economy and the environment.
The confiscated products will be handed over to the appropriate authorities for further action. The Nigerian Navy remains resolute in its mission to eradicate illegal oil-related activities and ensure the security and prosperity of the nation.
-
Nigerian Navy Ship Beecroft Nabs Motor Tanker SAISNIL II In Suspected Crude Oil Theft Bust
In a significant demonstration of maritime security capability, the patrol team of Nigerian Navy Ship BEECROFT, led by its Commander, Commodore Kolawole Olumide Oguntuga, also the Maritime Component Commander Operation AWATSE, apprehended the Motor Tanker Vessel SAISNIL II for suspected crude oil theft.
The flagged St. Vincent & Grenadines vessel, with 11 crew members on board at the time of arrest, was intercepted after it turned off its Automatic Identification System (AIS).
Rear Admiral MB Hassan, the Flag Officer Commanding Western Naval Command, highlighted the significance of AIS in monitoring vessel activities, emphasizing that turning off such systems often raises suspicions of illicit maritime activities.
Rear Admiral Hassan disclosed that the vessel, en route from Lagos to Port Harcourt for the evacuation of approximately 720,000 Liters of Crude Oil Sludge, raised suspicion due to a 48-hour manipulation of its AIS around the ABO field. Samples of the onboard product have been collected for analysis, with the results determining the subsequent course of action.
Addressing the press, Rear Admiral Hassan stressed the Nigerian Navy’s commitment to transparency and invited relevant agencies to conduct independent analyses of the vessel’s cargo. He underscored the Navy’s dedication to eradicating crude oil theft in the nation’s maritime environment for economic prosperity.
The successful operation aligns with the strategic directives of Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, Chief of the Naval Staff, and showcases the Navy’s relentless commitment to combating maritime illegalities.
-
NN Denies Allegations Of Wrongdoing In Sponsored Publication
The Naval Headquarters has strongly refuted recent claims made by Peoples Gazette, known for its history of character assassination and libel, against Chief of Naval Staff (CNS) Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla. The publication alleges involvement in multi-billion naira oil bunkering and contract-splitting fraud.
The Nigerian Navy dismisses these allegations as baseless and unfounded. It clarifies that procedural requirements in the arrest, detention, and release of vessels involved in illegal activities are strictly followed. Contrary to the report, no vessels implicated in crude oil theft have been released prematurely.
Additionally, the CNS does not have the authority to award or oversee oil bunkering contracts, as this falls under the purview of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL). The Navy asserts that all contracts awarded adhere to due process in line with national laws.
The Navy attributes these accusations to a coordinated effort by disgruntled elements seeking to undermine its recent successes in combating crude oil theft and illegal activities in the maritime domain. Operation Delta Sanity, launched by the Nigerian Navy, has intensified efforts to address these issues and has evidently disrupted criminal operations, leading to desperate attempts at tarnishing the Navy’s reputation.
Rear Admiral AO Ayo-Vaughan, the Director of Information, emphasizes the Navy’s commitment to ensuring the smooth operation of legitimate businesses in the maritime sector. Despite attempts at distraction, the Navy remains resolute in its mission to confront criminal activities that hinder Nigeria’s economic progress.
The public is urged to disregard the malicious publication from Peoples Gazette, deemed as a fabrication fueled by shallow imagination and unpatriotic motives. Rear Admiral Ayo-Vaughan requests widespread dissemination of this clarification to counter the false narrative presented in the sponsored article.