By Chuks Oyema-Aziken
The Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, has appraised the conduct of the Service and said the country’s maritime domain is being safe guarded.
Ogallah stated this in his speech at the Nigerian Navy Ceremonial Sunset and Awards Night 2023, on Friday, in Abuja.
He said that through ongoing operations including Operation AWATSE, Operation Water Guard, and Operation Dakata Barau, among others, several vessels and individuals engaged in oil theft had been apprehended.
“As a testament of our commitment to operational readiness, we recently conducted a comprehensive end-of-the year sea inspection involving 13 ships and two helicopters as well as a detachment of the Special Boat Service (SBS).
“This exercise, codenamed NCHEKWA OSHIMIRI, provided a valuable opportunity to assess our combat capabilities and preparedness to face any potential threats.
“During the four-day exercise, various naval drills and evolutions were carried out at sea, including anti-piracy, anti-crude oil theft and anti-Illegal Unreported and Unregulated Fishing (IUUF) operations.
“Others were Replenishment at Sea (RAS), Gunnery Exercise (GUNNEX), Communication Exercise (COMMEX), fleet manoeuvre among others.
“Distinguished invited guests, this assemblage of ships is adjudged the highest in recent Nigerian Navy history,” he said.
The CNS said 2023 had been a period of significant progress and accomplishment for the Nigerian navy, adding that he came in with a vision to maintain a professional navy, capable and responsive to the demands of maritime environment.
The CNS said that one of his primary objectives was to ensure that the navy fleet was equipped and prepared to meet the evolving maritime security landscape.
“This year, we have made significant progress in fleet renewal efforts, with the acquisition of new vessels and the ongoing modernization of existing platforms.
“We have also continued to invest in maritime domain awareness.
“Through technological advancements and improved intelligence gathering, we have gained a deeper understanding of the activities within our waters.
“Furthermore, we have continued to contribute manpower and resources to ongoing land-based operations in the North East, North West, North Central and other security hotspots in the country.
“This has significantly contributed to the improved security situation in the country,” Ogalla said.
