Category: Nigerian Navy

  • Nigerian Navy Foils Oil Theft In Lagos, Nab 4 Suspects

    Nigerian Navy Foils Oil Theft In Lagos, Nab 4 Suspects


    The Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) BEECROFT have apprehended four individuals for their alleged involvement in an attempt to smuggle approximately 11,000 liters of suspected stolen crude oil into Lagos. The detainees, reportedly affiliated with Tantita Security Limited, have been identified as Asonja Goddey (28), Obajimi Oluwaseyifunmi (38), Awoowo Aribo (35), and Oluwadaisi Balogun (40).

    Their arrest took place on August 29 in the vicinity of Itolu community, Ibeju Lekki, along the waterways.

    In addition to the four apprehended suspects, the Chief Security Officer (CSO), Owoyele Omotuyi, was also taken into custody by the navy. Omotuyi had attempted to secure the release of the detainees on bail.

    The Nigerian Navy’s intervention was prompted by a distress call from residents of the Itolu community. The residents had reported sounds of gunfire and the alleged hijacking of an outboard engine boat owned by Ishola Ojubuyi (42). Acting swiftly in response to the distress call, the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Lekki dispatched personnel who subsequently arrested the four suspects. The individuals were found wearing black TANTITA-branded t-shirts.

    According to Commodore Kolawole Oguntuga, the Commander of NNS BEECROFT, the suspects were in the process of recovering a disassembled outboard engine from a local individual. Upon the apprehension of these four Tantita employees, the patrol team made a further discovery. They realized that the detainees were connected to the movement of a large wooden boat accompanied by two fiber boats.

    The suspects, along with the recovered materials, were presented to the public during a parade at Apapa. Oguntuga emphasized the prompt action taken by his team in response to the distress call and highlighted the circumstances leading to the arrests of the four individuals.

    “The four arrested individuals beckoned on the two fiber boats to approach them but when they noticed NN patrol teams, the boats altered courses, fled and abandoned the large wooden boat laden with 11 x 1000L Geepee tanks with products suspected to be stolen crude oil.

    “The Nigerian Navy has initiated an investigation to unravel the circumstances surrounding the incident particularly the possession of firearms used in the community, economic sabotage, how the product came from Ondo to Lagos state as well as attempting to steal a boat engine from the locals.

    “One Mr Owoyele Omotuyi, who was identified as a Tantita staff, came to secure the release of the four apprehended, claiming they are Tantita employees.

    “All suspects along with the confiscated exhibits, will be handed over to appropriate agencies for further necessary action and prosecution.

    “The Nigerian Navy under the watch of Vice Admiral EI Ogalla, Chief of the Naval Staff, remains resolute towards ensuring the maritime environment is conducive for legitimate businesses necessary for economic prosperity of the nation,” he said.

    In response to the arrest, the Coordinator of TANTITA in Ondo State, Chief Idowu Asonja, issued a statement asserting that the detained individuals were not engaged in the criminal activity, but rather had intercepted the wooden boats. He expressed deep concern and dismay over the arrest of these individuals, and he alleged that the navy had initially showcased the boat publicly but subsequently released it.

    Nevertheless, one of the individuals paraded as suspects recounted to journalists that they were involved in an illicit operation.

    He further disclosed that certain personnel from the Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps (NSCDC) were accompanying them, but these individuals fled upon spotting the naval officers approaching.

  • Effective Deployment, Operational Status Achieved For Deep Blue Assets, Managed By Project Team – Jamoh

    Effective Deployment, Operational Status Achieved For Deep Blue Assets, Managed By Project Team – Jamoh

    The Nigerian Navy has announced the deployment of assets procured by the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) through the Integrated National Security and Waterways Protection Infrastructure, commonly referred to as the Deep Blue project.

    These assets have been strategically positioned across the South West, Central, and Eastern Zonal operations, effectively reinforcing patrols within the Nigerian maritime expanse.

    Commodore Victor Choji, the Acting Fleet Commander of the Western Naval Command and Commander of the Deep Blue Project, conveyed this update during an official visit by Rear Admiral Mohammed Abdullahi, the Flag Officer Commanding (FOC) of the Western Naval Command, to NIMASA’s management. Commodore Choji also emphasized that Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, the Chief of Naval Staff, leads the Nigerian Navy with unwavering dedication to the successful realization of the Deep Blue Project.

    According to him, “The assets have already been well deployed. As we speak 5 armoured vehicles are deployed in Port Harcourt and 3 in Bonny.”

    Continuing his remarks, he mentioned that the project team had introduced an additional 10 vehicles and a drone unit to the Bonny area, along with a complement of personnel. He alluded to the fact that during the recent national elections, the mere existence of the deep blue assets in those regions yielded the necessary influence that was needed.

    Choji added that within the Central Zone Command, the Navy had dispatched three sets of specialized mission components to the brass area, as well as two interceptor boats carrying the special intervention force elements within the central command.

    “In Lagos, just last week, we got a directive that there is a requirement and we are about to deploy 2 interceptor boats to support the operations that are ongoing in Lagos Inland waters. I can state categorically that we have the full backing of the Nigerian Navy for the success of the Deep Blue Project,” he noted.

    Speaking, Director General of NIMASA, Dr. Bashir Jamoh, pointed out that the assets procured by the Agency as part of the Deep Blue Project are under the management of a specialized project group led by a Commodore from the Nigerian Navy. He reiterated the Agency’s dedication to fostering a strong partnership with the Nigerian Navy, aiming to contribute to the economic advancement of the nation.

    “I believe that the Agency and the Nigerian Navy have a lot in common to ensure safety and security in the nation’s waters. While the Nigerian Navy takes care of the kinetic operations, NIMASA concentrates on non-kinetic operations, and the two will have to go hand in hand if we must succeed. If you look at the armed forces act, the Nigerian Navy has a role to play in ensuring the implementation and enforcement of the NIMASA and Customs & Excise act”, he noted.

    Jamoh has articulated NIMASA’s aspiration to maximize returns on the investments made and still being made in the Deep Blue Project. He additionally highlighted that the Agency maintains consistent communication with the National Assembly.

    This communication aims to ensure that the nation’s maritime laws, particularly the Merchant Shipping Act, are updated appropriately. This update would include incorporating robust punitive measures within the legal framework to effectively discourage criminal activities within Nigerian waters.

    In acknowledging the commendable efforts of the Nigerian Navy in tracing vessels that deactivate their Automatic Identification System (AIS) within Nigerian waters, Dr Jamoh urged for enhanced collaboration among all governmental bodies within the maritime sector.

    He specifically emphasized the importance of synergizing efforts between the Nigerian Navy and the maritime division of the Nigerian Police. This collaborative approach is crucial in promptly addressing the recent instances of criminal activities occurring in the vicinity of the Lagos anchorage and inland waterways.

  • Nigerian Army Troops Destroy Illegal Refinery In Anti-Oil Theft Operation

    Nigerian Army Troops Destroy Illegal Refinery In Anti-Oil Theft Operation


    Troops of 6 Division Nigerian Army have continued to crack down on saboteurs of Nigeria’s oil sector in South South Nigeria as it destroyed massive illegal refinery in Delta State.

    A statement signed by Brigadier General Onyema Nwachukwu, Director Army Public Relations revealed that troops conducting anti oil theft operations, responding to actionable intelligence on Aug. 23 swooped on an illegal oil refinery site in the general area of Ogbokoko and Atu in Warri South Local Government Area of Delta State. 

    “During the operations, troops destroyed 8 active Ovens used for illegal refining of stolen crude oil, 14 storage reservoirs containing stolen crude oil estimated  at 200,000 litres and 90,000 litres of locally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO). 

    “The oil thieves fled the scene, on sighting the advancement of troops. The Illegal refining site was destroyed in-situ in line with extant guidelines of Operation Delta Safe. Investigation is ongoing to arrest the fleeing criminals.

    “Members of the public are please implored to report any suspected act of sabotage or criminality to security agencies to enhance ongoing operations to curb  economic sabotage in the country,” it read.

  • NIMASA Fostering Growth Of Nigerian Seafarers Through Cabotage Implementation

    NIMASA Fostering Growth Of Nigerian Seafarers Through Cabotage Implementation

    Central to the Cabotage regime is the principle of enhancing local involvement in the crewing of vessels operating within Nigerian waters.

    NIMASA has been dedicated to ensuring that Nigerian seafarers are placed on board Cabotage vessels, aligning with its role in placements and the provisions of the Cabotage Act of 2003.

    A significant stride has been made in this regard, as applications for Cabotage crew placements now come with the stipulation that all foreign crew, particularly Ratings on vessels, must be replaced with Nigerian seafarers or cadets within a period of two to three weeks of commencing operations. As a result, a total of 539 Nigerian seafarers have been recommended for such replacements in the initial quarter of 2023.

    Under the leadership of Dr. Bashir Jamoh, NIMASA, in the current administration, achieved the placement of 3,705 seafarers on Cabotage vessels in 2021, followed by 7,238 seafarers in 2022, and an additional 1,013 seafarers from January to July 2023. This cumulative effort has led to the successful placement of 11,956 Nigerian seafarers on Cabotage vessels between January 2021 and July 2023.

    Streamlining administrative processes, NIMASA has digitized the registration and documentation procedures. The establishment of the e-registration platform facilitates the online and real-time registration of maritime labor participants such as seafarers, dockworkers, maritime labor employers (including shipping companies, manning/crewing agents, stevedoring companies, and terminal operators), as well as various operators in the maritime sector. This digitalization aims to enhance efficiency and accuracy while also serving as a valuable database for statistical analysis, national planning, policy formulation, and research purposes. The intention is to host this e-registration platform on the NIMASA website.

    In addition, the years 2021 and 2022 saw the registration of 3,219 and 3,619 seafarers, respectively, with 1,176 registrations recorded from January to July 2023. In the same timeframe, the issuance of MLC, 2006 certificates amounted to 24 in 2021, 49 in 2022, and 63 from January to July 2023. Consequently, a total of 8,014 seafarers were registered from 2021 to 2023 (January to July), with 136 MLC, 2006 certificates issued after inspections during the same period.

    Furthermore, a total of 65 stevedoring companies, 26 terminal/jetty operators, and 1,395 dockworkers were duly registered between 2021 and 2023 (January to July).

    In 2008, NIMASA initiated the Nigerian Seafarers Development Programme (NSDP) with the primary objective of training Nigerian youths as seafarers and Naval Architects, contributing to the enhancement of maritime capacity. This program was designed to provide comprehensive education up to degree level in Marine Engineering, Nautical Sciences, and Naval Architecture at select Maritime Training Institutions (MTIs) abroad.

    The aim was to equip beneficiaries with the skills to effectively compete in the global maritime industry and contribute to the growth of Nigeria’s maritime sector.

    Notably, in December 2022, NIMASA sent off 235 Nigerian youths to India and Greece as Batch B of a total of 435 young Nigerians to be trained under the NSDP as Licensed Deck and Engine Officers, including Naval Architects. This batch followed an earlier sponsorship of 200 individuals under Batch A.

    During this initiative, NIMASA Director-General Dr. Bashir Jamoh, highlighted the importance of mutual recognition of Certificate of Competency (CoC) in collaboration with countries that support this understanding, which influenced the selection of training institutes for beneficiaries. It’s also noteworthy that NIMASA has succeeded in providing “seatime” experience for all NSDP beneficiaries, laying the foundation for them to earn foreign currencies and contribute to the nation’s remittances.

  • Nigerian Navy Flags Off Inaugural NAVTRAC Games 2023

    Nigerian Navy Flags Off Inaugural NAVTRAC Games 2023


    Amidst an air of anticipation and camaraderie, the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, has flagged off the highly awaited NAVTRAC Games 2023 which kicked off with great enthusiasm at the Nigerian Navy Sports Complex in Navy Town, Ojo.

    The event, spanning from August 20 to August 26, marks a significant step forward in the Nigerian Navy’s commitment to nurturing sports talent and promoting physical wellbeing.

    Ogalla who was represented by the Flag Officer Commanding Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral Mohammed Abdullahi expressed his delight at the burgeoning role of sports as a rapidly growing profession on the global stage, with both governmental and non-governmental bodies making substantial investments in its development.

    He lauded the NAVTRAC Games 2023 as an initiative by the Naval Training Command to unearth and celebrate exceptional sportsmen and women within the Nigerian Navy. He noted that the event stands as a testament to the Navy’s dedication to fostering mental and physical wellbeing among its officers and ratings.

    “The NAVTRAC GAMES 2023″ is yet another Nigerian Navy demonstration of interest to be one of the leading sports developers in Nigeria. I am hopeful that this sporting competition will further reveal new talents that would fortify our chances of being a power house in the Nigerian sports industry. I have no doubts in the capacity of the organiser that the competitors will strive to create new national records for future local and international competitions.

    Certainly, the event will not just entertain us but also project positively the image of the Nigerian Navy as sports enthusiast as well as developer. Therefore, I am confident that this event will avail talent hunters the opportunity to hand pick new talents for greater adventures. Let me also state that the NN Department of Sports and Physical Training use this event to identify talents that will be NN representative in future competitions,” he said.

    Referencing the successful NN Games 2022, Vice Admiral Ogalla underscored the Navy’s enduring commitment to sports development and its role in strengthening civil-military relations.

    The NAVTRAC GAMES 2023, he emphasized, is a continuation of this commitment and a demonstration of the Navy’s aspirations to become a prominent player in Nigeria’s sports arena.

    The Chief of the Naval Staff expressed optimism that the competition would act as a catalyst for discovering fresh talents that would elevate Nigeria’s standing in the international sports domain.

    He confidently anticipated that participants would set new national records, setting the stage for future local and international competitions. This event, he noted, would not only provide entertainment but also enhance the Nigerian Navy’s image as a sports enthusiast and developer.

    He praised the establishment of professional sporting clubs within the Nigerian Navy, such as the Navy Spikers, Admiralty Football Club, and Polo Club, as promising initiatives that are already making their mark in the local sports landscape.

    According to him, “Today all over the world both military and civil organisations recognise sports as a key sector to invest not just for health benefits but to create a very dependable sources of employment for the teeming youths. Thus, the Nigerian Navy places high premium on sports entertainment through events such as this.

    “Presently, the Nigerian navy has taken initiative by establishing professional sporting clubs like the Navy Spikers, Admiralty Football Club and Polo Club amongst others. These are clubs already making impacts in the local sports industry in the country. It is hoped that these clubs will join professional leagues in the nearest future.”

    With an eye on the future, Vice Admiral Ogalla urged participants to view the NAVTRAC Games 2023 as a platform to launch their sporting ambitions and to compete in the spirit of sportsmanship.

    He urged strict adherence to the rules of the games to ensure fairness and camaraderie.

    The Chief of the Naval Staff also urged officiating staff to uphold professionalism, impartiality, and fairness throughout the competition.

    In his address, the Flag Officer Commanding Naval Training Command, Rear Admiral Patrick Nwatu, believed the games will engender comradeship, enable NAVTRAC personnel channel their energy into productive activities and unveil new talents to the Nigerian sports industry.

    “Being the first of its kind in recent years, this event is aimed at achieving 3 things. First, the 2023 NAVTRAC GAMES is aimed at engendering comradeship amongst NAVTRAC personnel while consolidating physical and mental aspect of training. Secondly, considering the vices in our society, this games will go a long way to enabling NAVTRAC personnel channel their energy into productive activities and away from negative vices.

    This sporting competition will further unveil new talents that would fortify our chances of being a power house in the Nigerian sports industry. I am hopeful that these would be achieved by the end of this event,” he said.

    “Dear athletes, rest assured that we all are standing with you, cheering and supporting you. May this encourage you to go faster, to aim higher and to become stronger – together. It is in this light that I urge participants to see this competition as a platform to make new friends and launch their sporting ambition in the spirit of good sportsmanship,” he said.

    Participants of the games include: Nigerian Navy Logistics College Kano, Nigerian Navy College of Account & Finance, Owerrita, Nigerian Navy College Onne, Nigerian Navy Basic Training School, Nigerian Navy Hydrographic School.

    Others are Nigerian Navy Engineering College Sapele, Nigerian Navy Ship QUORRA, Nigerian Navy School of Armament Technology, Nigerian Navy Provost and Regulating School, Nigeria Navy Centre of Education And Training Technology, Lagos, Nigerian Navy College of Health Sciences in Offa, Kwara State.

    Similar to other developing countries worldwide, the Nigerian Navy is well aware of the contemporary security challenges prevalent in society. This awareness drives their unwavering commitment to the 2023 Naval Training Command games, aimed at ensuring their physical and psychological preparedness for combat. Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, who at the opening ceremony, emphasized the Navy’s fervor for sports, aligning with global best practices.

    Rear Admiral Patrick Nwatu, the Flag Officer Commanding Naval Training Command, elucidated that these games are a pivotal component of the Nigerian Navy’s strategy to cultivate talents capable of elevating Nigeria’s influence not only within Africa but also on the global stage.

    One noteworthy football match featured the under-15 boys from Navy Barracks Mobile Road, who held the host team from Ojo Barracks to an equitable 1-1 draw. Beyond football, athletes showcased their prowess in handball, basketball, and swimming, contributing to the overarching goal of boosting productivity and efficiency in their professional responsibilities.

  • BEECROFT: Nigerian Navy Foils Illicit Pipeline Activities, Safeguards Critical NNPCL Facility

    BEECROFT: Nigerian Navy Foils Illicit Pipeline Activities, Safeguards Critical NNPCL Facility



    In an impressive show of vigilance and commitment, the Nigerian Navy’s NNS BEECROFT patrol team led by its Commander, Commodore Kolawale Oguntuga has effectively thwarted the efforts of vandals and economic disruptors to unlawfully drain valuable products from pipelines.

    The incident transpired at the Single Buoy Mooring (SBM) situated offshore near Atlas Cove in Lagos, a pivotal installation overseen by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL). This facility serves as a key point for vessels to unload refined products, which are then distributed for public consumption.

    As a result of the timely intervention, ten suspects have been apprehended and subsequently handed over to the NSCDC for thorough investigation and eventual prosecution. The SBM’s intricate structure demands meticulous attention due to the potential fire hazards it poses. A mishap at this facility could lead to dire consequences, including catastrophic explosions.

    The SBM holds a significant position in ensuring Nigeria’s energy security, being instrumental in facilitating the widespread distribution of products across the southwestern region of the country. The culprits, engaged in acts of vandalism and oil theft, surreptitiously attach hoses and pumping machinery to pipelines using an assortment of tools.

    Oguntuga said, “This not only compromises the quality of intended products but also elevates the risk of fire outbreaks. Moreover, such unscrupulous activities enable wrongdoers to obtain products without cost, thus potentially fueling criminal activities and undermining national security.

    The rapid response of the NNS BEECROFT patrol team was achieved through the utilization of cutting-edge technology known as Falcon Eye Alignment. This advanced technological solution highlights the Nigerian Navy’s steadfast commitment to harnessing innovations for the protection of the nation’s economic interests.

    According to Commodore Kolawale Oguntuga, under the guidance of Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, the Nigerian Navy remains resolute and unwavering in its determination to combat all forms of economic sabotage. This dedication ensures the sustainable growth of the nation’s blue economy, fostering prosperity and progress.

  • Vice Admiral Ogalla Engages In Maritime Readiness Assessment, Empowerment Endeavours During Lagos Tour

    Vice Admiral Ogalla Engages In Maritime Readiness Assessment, Empowerment Endeavours During Lagos Tour


    The Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, embarked on a significant journey to various units and establishments within the Lagos Area, marking a pivotal moment in his Familiarization tour.

    The tour was orchestrated to facilitate a comprehensive evaluation of the activities, challenges, ongoing projects, and independent operations executed by the Nigerian Navy (NN) and in collaboration with sister services.

    A focal highlight of the tour was the Chief’s interaction with the dedicated personnel stationed in the Lagos Area. Demonstrating his profound commitment to the well-being of the naval force, Vice Admiral Ogalla reiterated the paramount importance of the human element in all production endeavors. “In line with my strategic directives, our foremost priority is the empowerment and motivation of our personnel,” he stated.

    He placed emphasis on advancing strategic training programs, notably the Special Boat Service (S.B.S) and similar initiatives.

    The Chief of the Naval Staff emphasized the need to equip naval personnel with the proficiency to proficiently operate the state-of-the-art machinery, equipment, and platforms procured by the Nigerian Navy.

    He noted, “So, we can train the men in a way that they will be able to use the machines, equipment and the platforms that we have spent so much money to acquire.

    “I believe that one’s we take care of the personnel, then they will take care of the machines. We have been and we keep ensuring that we combat crude oil thieves. It’s part of our statutory responsibilities which we cannot take for granted.

    “We have been doing it and we are going to improve on out capacity. We will double up our efforts in this regard, believing that we will achieve the desired objectives,” he said.

    Vice Admiral Ogalla further affirmed, “When we invest in our personnel, they, in turn, safeguard and optimize our valuable assets. Our ongoing efforts to combat crude oil theft underscore our unwavering commitment to our statutory responsibilities, an aspect we hold with the utmost seriousness.”

    Addressing the maritime significance of the Lagos Area, Vice Admiral Ogalla articulated its role as a vital hub for maritime trade. Safeguarding the sea lanes leading to Lagos Port is pivotal to ensuring a secure maritime environment for the nation. In this context, he shared, “Lagos holds a paramount place in our maritime domain. By protecting the sea lanes of communication, we are significantly enhancing the maritime security landscape.”

    Leveraging the region’s strategic assets, such as the Bircote base, and emphasizing future initiatives, including the establishment of new bases in Epe, Vice Admiral Ogalla reaffirmed the Nigerian Navy’s commitment to improving the ease of doing business in Lagos. By bolstering security measures in the maritime domain, the Navy aims to bolster trade and investment activities.

    The Navy’s vision of synergizing human capabilities with advanced technologies was highlighted, with Vice Admiral Ogalla elaborating on their innovative Force Eye surveillance system.

    This cutting-edge technology acts as a force multiplier, complementing human intelligence and other forms of information gathering. “Our pursuit of comprehensive maritime security includes leveraging technology to extend our operational reach,” he emphasized.

    Ogalla emphasized that the invaluable contribution of dedicated personnel remains irreplaceable. With a resolute focus on enhancing security across both land and eternal waters – a substantial 30% of Lagos lies within the eternal water area – the Nigerian Navy is committed to upholding maritime safety and promoting economic prosperity.

    The Chief’s visit to the Lagos Area serves as a testament to the Navy’s dedication to upholding its responsibilities, fostering personnel growth, and embracing innovative technologies for a secure maritime future.

  • Major General Usman Kicks Off 2023 Combat Proficiency Contest

    Major General Usman Kicks Off 2023 Combat Proficiency Contest



    The General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the 81st Division of the Nigerian Army, Major General Muhammed Takuti Usman has inaugurated the 81 Division Combat Proficiency Competition.

    The event was a key element of the Nigerian Army’s forecasted activities for the year 2023.

    The purpose of the competition is to enhance leadership skills, foster camaraderie, promote professional competence, and prepare officers for higher responsibilities. The event is being hosted at the 243 Recce Battalion located in Ibereko Barracks, Badagry, Lagos State.

    The competition also serves to ready the participating officers for potential combat situations, given the ongoing security challenges faced by the country.

    Representing the GOC was Brigadier General MA Sadiq, the Commander of the 81 Division Garrison who emphasized that this year’s Inter-Brigade Combat Proficiency Competition would be more rigorous and demanding than previous iterations due to the thorough preparations put forth by both the competition organizers and the participating units.

    He encouraged all participating officers to give their utmost effort in order to reap the maximum benefits from the event and bring honour to their respective units.

    The GOC underscored the importance of training as a foundational element for all military operations.

    He stressed that the performance of troops in both peacetime and wartime directly stems from the quality of training they receive. He referred to training as an essential tool that guarantees heightened military professionalism.

    Major General MT Usman also mentioned that the 81st Division was meeting expectations by hosting this year’s exercise in accordance with the Chief of Army Staff’s Command Philosophy, which aims to transform the Nigerian Army into a well-trained, well-equipped, and highly motivated force capable of fulfilling its constitutional obligations within a collaborative framework.

    The GOC provided a rundown of the criteria established to evaluate the competing formations in this year’s competition. These criteria encompassed skills such as map reading, combat swimming, weapon handling, and obstacle crossing.

    He highlighted that these requirements would serve as platforms for enhancing the combat proficiency and preparedness of junior commanders, enabling them to showcase their leadership acumen.

    He expressed gratitude towards the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) for his invaluable strategic guidance and support in meeting the Division’s training needs. He reiterated the Division’s unwavering commitment to prioritizing training, as evidenced by their adherence to all Nigerian Army Training Directives for the year 2023.

    The opening ceremony was marked by the initiation of the Map Reading exercise, which was the first activity scheduled for the competition. The exercise was hotly contested, signifying the commencement of the overall competition process.

  • NOWA Embarks On Philanthropic Mission, Attracts Strong Support

    NOWA Embarks On Philanthropic Mission, Attracts Strong Support


    In a remarkable display of unity and charitable spirit, the Naval Officers Wives Association (NOWA), NAVTRAC Chapter, under the leadership of Chairperson Mrs. Adarema Nwatu, has said it will embark on a significant medical endeavor aimed at enhancing community well-being and individual assistance.

    Mrs. Nwatu disclosed this during a visit to the Flag Officer Commanding (FOC) Naval Training Command (NAVTRAC), Rear Admiral Patrick Nwatu, at the command’s headquarters in Apapa, Monday.

    With the backing of the Naval Training Command (NAVTRAC), the initiative signifies a crucial advancement in the association’s impact on the Navy’s host community.

    Mrs. Nwatu highlighted that the outreach effort will prioritize essential medical services such as screening for high blood pressure, diabetes, and malaria, as well as providing routine medications for pregnant women.

    The aspiration is to offer fundamental healthcare support, and it is our sincere hope, bolstered by faith, that we can distribute mosquito nets to combat malaria’s prevalence within our community.

    According to her, “NOWA, like we know, is an NGO and a philanthropic organization. So, we try to establish civil, military relationship with our host communities. The music school in Ota is one community that has shown us some love in the Navy and we feel that the little thing we can do is to reach out to them and that’s why we’re planning on having a medical outreach.

    “We are not impacting everybody but at least we are looking at between 150 to 100 people. We are looking across board from children to pregnant women, the old ones. We are looking at having medical outreach. We are also going to be talking to the youths on the need to say no to drugs and sexual abstinence. And then for the children of course we encourage them to take their studies seriously and then the old ones we look into their health matters the best way we can.

    “We’ll be checking for high blood pressure, for diabetes, anti-malaria, pregnant women routine drugs. Just basic medical services and we hope and believe God that we’ll be able to share out mosquito nets so that we can fight back malaria from our community.”

    Reacting, the Flag Officer Commanding, Rear Admiral Patrick Nwatu expressed profound appreciation for the remarkable efforts of the Naval Officers Wives Association, NOWA Coordinator, Mrs Adarema Nwatu and her team during their visit.

    Admiral Nwatu acknowledged the complex nature of orchestrating such an event within NAVTRAC (Navy Training Command), considering the widespread deployment of personnel across the nation.

    He commended the coordinator’s proactive approach in bringing NOWA to fruition within NAVTRAC. He noted despite NAVTRAC being the most substantial command in terms of naval manpower, with an impressive contingent of over 25 percent of Navy officers and personnel serving as trainers or trainees, the dispersion of training schools across the country posed a logistical challenge.

    He said the challenge of uniting everyone and arranging inclusive events was underscored, given the limitations of unstable network connectivity for online gatherings and the resource-intensive nature of physically visiting each school.

    “Your initiative in tackling this challenge head-on to establish NOWA within NAVTRAC is highly commendable. The significance of such unity cannot be overstated,” stated the FOC

    He further noted that, “While NAVTRAC boasts a significant proportion of the Navy’s human resources, the geographic distribution has created hurdles. I urge you not to be disheartened; your proactive efforts are already making a significant impact. Strive to involve those who are physically distant in your initiatives to the fullest extent possible.”

    He also underscored the significance of the upcoming medical outreach program scheduled for October, a major point of discussion during the visit. NOWA’s pivotal role in elevating the well-being of officers’ families was acknowledged.

    He said “NOWA’s role in fostering the welfare of our officers’ families is of paramount importance. It’s time for NOWA to evolve and transform further. The responsibility lies with each one of you present here today to deepen your engagement with the service. The potential for positive change is substantial.

    “I think NOWA has to evolve, transform and the challenge is to those of you who are here to endear yourself more to the service. There is so much more that you can do. There is a lot of hopelessness in the psyche of spouses of younger officers who are not used to the challenges or the kinds of jobs we do. So, NOWA must play a much stronger role for RANOWA. I must congratulate you over the choice of Ota community for the event because the community has been very good to the command. We are beneficiaries of over 50 acres of land there and so, I think the medical outreach there will be most welcome.”

    Addressing the choice of Ota community as the venue for the upcoming event, he acknowledged the community’s generosity, having granted the command access to more than 50 acres of land.

    He added that the collaborative relationship laid a solid foundation for the forthcoming medical outreach in the region.

  • NIMASA’s REMARKABLE ACHIEVEMENTS: Nigeria’s Maritime Advancements Garner International Acclaim

    NIMASA’s REMARKABLE ACHIEVEMENTS: Nigeria’s Maritime Advancements Garner International Acclaim

    In a remarkable three-year span from 2020 to 2023, the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) has propelled the nation’s maritime sector into global prominence through the ratification of six crucial international conventions.

    Spearheaded by the visionary leadership of Dr. Bashir Yusuf Jamoh, NIMASA has not only accelerated Nigeria’s journey toward a robust blue economy but has also set a high standard for maritime potential utilization to ensure economic sustainability and growth.

    Under Jamoh’s strategic guidance, Nigeria has earned widespread recognition for its proactive efforts in the maritime domain. It’s imperative to underline that these accomplishments wouldn’t have been possible without the steadfast legal foundations provided by both domestic legislation and international conventions, to which Nigeria has committed itself. The country has conscientiously ratified six pivotal international maritime conventions, encompassing various facets such as training standards, certification protocols, pollution control, and passenger luggage carriage by sea.

    The conventions ratified include the Hong Kong International Convention for the Safe and Environmentally Sound Recycling of Ships 2009, International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification, and Watch-keeping for Fishing Vessel Personnel (STCW-F) 1995, Protocol Relating to Intervention on the High Seas in Cases of Oil Pollution Casualties (Intervention Protocol) 1973, Protocol on Limitation of Liability for Maritime Claims (LLMC) 1996, Protocol to the 1974 Athens Convention relating to the Carriage of Passengers and their Luggage by Sea 2002, and Protocol of 2005 to the 1988 Protocol for the Suppression of Unlawful Acts against the Safety of Fixed Platforms located on the Continental Shelf (SUA PROT 2005).

    During this transformative triennial period, NIMASA has also successfully concluded the review of 49 regulations established under the Merchant Shipping Act, 2007. These regulations are tailored to safeguard the interests of indigenous maritime professionals and investors, offering them priority in various opportunities within the sector.

    In tandem with its commitment to bridging operational gaps between maritime and other sectors, NIMASA has facilitated unprecedented interagency collaboration with federal government-owned bodies. The agency has inked Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with key entities such as the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), Nigerian Institute of Transport Technology (NITT), and the National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency (NOSDRA), signifying its dedication to holistic development.

    Furthermore, NIMASA’s drive for global maritime excellence has led to groundbreaking MoUs with 16 countries, focusing on the recognition of Certificate of Competency (CoC) and the training of seafarers. This initiative aims to foster international employment opportunities for Nigerian CoC holders while contributing to the global challenge of seafarer shortage.

    In the realm of certification, NIMASA’s innovative approach has automated the registration process for Shipping Company/Agents, ensuring greater integrity through QR code-embedded certificates, effectively eliminating the specter of counterfeit documentation.

    NIMASA’s commitment to education extends to the legal sphere as well, with the agency successfully hosting the Annual Nigerian Admiralty Law Colloquium in collaboration with the Nigeria Institute of Advanced Legal Studies (NIALS) and the National Judicial Institute (NJI) for consecutive years. This initiative aims to enhance judicial officers’ capacity to handle admiralty cases effectively.

    One of NIMASA’s most notable achievements is the instrumental role it played in the implementation of the Suppression of Piracy and Maritime Offences (SPOMO) Act, 2019. This landmark legislation has significantly bolstered security in trading routes across the Gulf of Guinea, leading to the successful prosecution of several piracy-related cases. The SPOMO Act has garnered global attention for its comprehensive legal framework and successful outcomes, inspiring maritime administrations worldwide to consider its model for tackling piracy.

    Renowned figures in the global maritime community, including Kitack Lim, Secretary of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), and Dr. Paul Adalikwu, Secretary General of the Maritime Organization of West and Central Africa (MOWCA), have applauded Nigeria’s SPOMO Act, recommending its adoption to other African nations.

    In sum, NIMASA’s dynamic leadership, steered by Dr. Jamoh and his adept team, has transformed the agency into a beacon of progress, leveraging the power of the law to augment Nigeria’s maritime industry and contribute substantially to the nation’s economic prosperity.

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