The Nigerian Navy has showcased exceptional dedication in securing the nation’s waters between July 9th and 13th, 2024, successfully thwarting a variety of maritime crimes. In a statement by the Director of Naval Information, Commodore A. Adams-Aliu, it was highlighted that various units of the Navy played crucial roles in maintaining peace and high security across Nigeria’s maritime domain.
On July 9th, 2024, the quick response team from the Nigerian Navy Forward Operating Base in Badagry intercepted a wooden boat carrying eight young women aged 18 to 23, destined for Benin Republic. Upon investigation, it was revealed they were victims of human trafficking. The women were handed over to the National Agency for Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) for further investigation to identify the traffickers and their network.
The following day, on July 10th, personnel from the Nigerian Navy Forward Operating Base in Ibaka, Akwa Ibom State, intercepted suspected sea robbers attempting to attack a supply vessel along the Uyenghe River in Mbo Local Government Area. Despite a fierce exchange of gunfire, the Navy foiled the robbery, though the suspects managed to escape into the creeks.
On July 12th, 2024, two fishermen were rescued from drowning near the Lekki Anchorage area, 10 nautical miles from the Dangote Refinery in Ibeju-Lekki Local Government Area. Their boat had capsized due to rough sea conditions, but quick action by personnel from the Forward Operating Base Lekki ensured their safe return to shore.
The Nigerian Navy continued its vigilance on July 13th, 2024, when a patrol team from the Nigerian Navy Ship BEECROFT (NNS BEECROFT) arrested eight suspected stowaways attempting to board the MV NORTHERN LIGHT along the Lagos Channel. The suspects, found trying to access the vessel via its rudder compartment, were detained and handed over to the Nigeria Immigration Service, Lagos State Port and Marine Command, for further investigation. Notably, NNS BEECROFT has apprehended 33 stowaways between January and July 2024 alone.
Vice Admiral Ikechukwu Emmanuel Ogalla, Chief of the Naval Staff, reassured all stakeholders and citizens that the Nigerian Navy remains steadfast in its commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime space. Under his leadership, the Navy will continue to combat criminal activities to ensure a safe and secure environment for economic and social activities.
These commendable efforts by the Nigerian Navy underscore their pivotal role in maintaining the integrity and security of Nigeria’s maritime borders, ensuring a safer and more prosperous nation.
