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Tag: Nigerian Navy

  • 70 years journey of Nigeria’s Platinum Navy

    70 years journey of Nigeria’s Platinum Navy

    • By Babajide Fadoju

    In 2026, the Nigerian Navy will officially turn 70, having come into existence on June 1, 1956, as the Nigerian Navy Defence Force (NNDF). The middle child of Nigeria’s Armed Forces—younger than the Army but older than the Air Force—the Service is approaching a platinum jubilee milestone.

    For the Navy, and for the nation as a whole, this anniversary is a moment to celebrate and honour an enduring legacy of courageous service. It is also an opportunity to reaffirm the Navy’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime domain and protecting the country’s vital economic lifelines at sea.

    Platinum, as a metal, symbolises strength and durability. It is resistant to wear and corrosion, widely used across industries, and is, in fact, the most ductile of all pure metals—able to be stretched into thin wire without breaking.

    It is a fitting metaphor for the Nigerian Navy: resilient under pressure, adaptable in form, and enduring in purpose.

    The man who will lead the Service through its 70th anniversary and into the next phase of its journey is Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, the 56-year-old 25th Chief of the Naval Staff, who assumed command on the penultimate day of October 2025. Since taking office, the highly decorated Above Water Warfare specialist has signalled his determination to preside over a defining era for the Navy.

    For his command, 2026 will be a pivotal year—an opportunity to present to the world a Nigerian Navy that is at its most capable, most motivated, and most formidable in its history, and to demonstrate fidelity to his inaugural pledge to “uphold the proud traditions of excellence and service that define our Navy,” while leading from the front, listening attentively, and keeping personnel welfare at the heart of command.

    As the new year gets underway, preparations are gathering momentum, under Abbas’ leadership, for the anniversary celebrations, which will take place within the symbolic window between May 29 and June 12—two of the most significant dates in Nigeria’s democratic calendar. That symbolism should not be overlooked. The Navy, like the rest of the Armed Forces, occupies a special place in Nigeria’s democracy: protecting national sovereignty, preserving territorial integrity, and projecting Nigerian power and influence beyond its shores.

    Planned events for the platinum jubilee include an International Maritime Conference and Exhibition, as well as an International Fleet Review (IFR). Of all the Services, the Nigerian Navy is perhaps the most intrinsically international in outlook, given the multinational nature of the maritime environment in which it operates. It is therefore no surprise that navies from around the world will converge on Nigeria in the first week of June to participate in the celebrations, underscoring the Service’s growing global partnerships and standing.

    It is not an exaggeration to say that the modest force that began in 1956 with a handful of patrol, training, and survey vessels would barely recognise today’s Nigerian Navy. What now exists is one of Africa’s most formidable and respected maritime forces, equipped with modern platforms, improved infrastructure, and a more professionalised corps of officers and ratings.

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    Even compared to the Navy that marked its 60th anniversary in 2016, today’s Service represents a significant leap forward. The past decade has seen sustained investment, doctrinal refinement, and operational improvement. The results are evident. This is the Nigerian Navy that has kept Nigeria off the global list of piracy-prone nations for four consecutive years, maintaining a clean slate since that historic achievement in 2022—no small feat in one of the world’s most complex maritime regions.

    This is also the Nigerian Navy that, in 2025, concluded an agreement with the African Union to provide strategic sea lift services in support of AU humanitarian operations across the continent. Central to this capability is NNS KADA, one of the most modern and capable warships in Africa today.

    Indeed, it is KADA’s advanced capabilities that positioned the Navy to credibly offer such support to the African Union.

    The Navy’s elite Special Boat Service (SBS) has further strengthened its reputation as a top-tier special forces unit, and is now complemented by a newly established Special Operations Command (SOC), strategically located along the banks of the River Benue in Makurdi, Benue State.

    Beyond defence, the Nigerian Navy has increasingly asserted itself in humanitarian assistance and community impact. Through dozens of infrastructure projects nationwide, as well as high-risk rescue and evacuation operations, the Service has saved countless lives that would otherwise have been lost to maritime accidents and flooding.

    In August 2024, all 59 crew members of the dredging vessel MV Ambika 4 were rescued during a ten-hour naval operation—an operation that tragically claimed the life of Lieutenant Commander Gideon Yashim Gwaza, who led the mission and paid the ultimate price in service to others. More recently, on December 22, 2025, Nigerian Navy personnel rescued 20 crew members from the burning MV Chimba Express along the Calabar waterways.

    Nigeria was also recently in the news for the military intervention that helped preserve democracy in the Republic of Benin following an attempted coup on December 7. Less widely known, however, is the Nigerian Navy’s quiet but crucial role in strengthening Benin’s maritime security. Just two weeks before the attempted coup, the Naval Dockyard Limited formally handed over a fully refitted Benin Navy ship, BNS Matelot Brice Kpomasse, as part of an agreement to repair and upgrade six Beninese naval vessels signed in 2024.

    The Nigerian Navy has also become a valued partner in the global effort to fully map the world’s ocean floor. In May 2023, it entered a historic partnership with the Nippon Foundation–GEBCO Seabed 2030 Project, reflecting the significant advances the Service has made in oceanographic research, hydrographic surveying, and technical expertise. These advances have delivered tangible local benefits, with the National Hydrographic Agency—formerly the Nigerian Navy Hydrographic Office—producing updated and more accurate charts of Nigeria’s waterways.

    These achievements outlined above represent only a fraction of what defines Nigeria’s platinum Naval Force. Like every other Service, and the entirety of Nigeria’s security architecture, the Nigerian Navy has been able to count on the unwavering support and commitment of the Commander-in-Chief, His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. With this level of support, there is no doubt that the best is yet ahead; that fair winds and following seas are already assembling to usher the Nigerian Navy into an even more rewarding next chapter.

    • Fadoju writes from Ondo State
  • Navy defies rain, holds valedictory parade, pullout for ex-chief Ogalla

    Navy defies rain, holds valedictory parade, pullout for ex-chief Ogalla

    The Nigerian Navy (NN) on Thursday defied the heavy rainfall to bid farewell to the immediate past Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, in Lagos.

    The events, a valedictory parade and pulling out ceremony- held at the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) QUORRA in Apapa, brought together political leaders, serving and retired military chiefs, captains of industries, and well-wishers of Ogalla, who withstood the flash floods and heavy traffic inward Apapa to honour the former CNS whose tenure witnessed a drop in crude oil theft and other maritime illegalities.

    In his farewell speech after reviewing the parade, Ogalla described the rain as a sign of blessing in the coming years for the service, noting that Nigeria was blessed to have a Navy that continuously demonstrates exceptional competence, courage, and commitment in protecting its maritime interests and safeguarding national security, territorial integrity, and sovereignty.

    “These admirable values are the reason the Navy remains a pillar of regional security and a symbol of Nigeria’s presence in the maritime environment, not only within the Nigerian Maritime Area of Interest but in the entire Gulf of Guinea (GoG) and the globe as a whole.

    “On assumption of office, I was acutely aware of the weight of the legacy I was inheriting. I stepped into the shoes of visionary leaders who preceded me, and through their dedication and strategic foresight, I was able to transform the Nigerian Navy into the reputable force we have today,” he said.

    He thanked President Bola Tinubu for appointing and supporting him throughout the period of his service as CNS.

    “It has been the highest honour of my life. While in office, I outlined a vision that emphasised operational effectiveness, strategic innovation, enhanced training, robust partnerships, and improved welfare for our personnel. This vision, which is in line with the Nigerian Navy’s strategic plans, guided our decisions and helped align the Navy with evolving national and regional security realities.

    “Reflecting on our collective efforts, I am elated at how much we have achieved together. We intensified the fight against crude oil theft, piracy, and other forms of maritime illegality, leading to greater security in our maritime domain and the Gulf of Guinea as a whole…

    “We took delivery of new platforms and advanced our local shipbuilding capacities, enhancing our fleet’s capability and sustainability. We invested in training and welfare, understanding that our most critical asset is not just the ships and equipment but the sailor who mans them,” Ogalla added.

    He attributed the successes recorded under his watch to the loyalty, professionalism, and dedication demonstrated by personnel across all cadres, expressing confidence that the service was on a strong and positive trajectory.

    “I am constantly pleased by your resilience, courage, and unwavering commitment to duty. You sailed the ships. You flew the aircraft. You defended our maritime domain. You made our Navy proud. I will cherish the privilege of having been your Chief of Naval Staff.”

  • Oborevwori commends Navy’s role in safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime assets

    Oborevwori commends Navy’s role in safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime assets

    Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has commended the Nigerian Navy for its essential role in safeguarding the nation’s maritime interests and protecting critical oil and gas infrastructure.

    He described the Navy as vital to ensuring national stability and fostering economic growth.

    The Governor made the remarks during a courtesy visit from the 23rd Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, who was in Asaba for an operational tour of naval formations in Delta State.

    In his welcome address, Governor Oborevwori highlighted the importance of the Navy’s efforts in enhancing security within the Niger Delta region, which is significant for Nigeria’s oil production.

    He said the visit symbolises the Navy’s commitment to bolstering security in Delta State and reinforcing its status as a major oil-producing area.

    Oborevwori stated: “I welcome you and your entourage to Government House, Asaba. Your coming shows commitment and love for our state. Delta is one of the highest oil-producing states and a major contributor to the nation.

    “The Nigerian Navy has been instrumental in shaping our maritime security and protecting our national assets.”

    Oborevwori praised the Navy’s anti-piracy operations, peacekeeping efforts, and contributions to the state’s internal security architecture.

    He also commended officers serving in Delta State for their dedication and coordination with other security agencies, which, he said, had helped sustain peace across the state.

    He said: “I take security very seriously in Delta State. All security agencies here work together in unity and that is why we enjoy peace. Without peace, development is impossible. Julius Berger, CCECC, and several major contractors would not be able to operate here if not for the peaceful atmosphere”.

    The Governor noted that the stability in Delta had made it possible for his administration to push ahead with massive infrastructure projects, including flyovers and highways such as the Ughelli–Asaba expressway, one of the longest in the South-South.

    He assured the CNS of the state government’s continued cooperation to enhance security around oil installations and coastal communities.

    “Our oil assets are secure because of the good working relationship among all security agencies. If there is a problem in Delta, the entire country will feel it. We are holding the home front here, and we appreciate your commitment,” Oborevwori added.

    Earlier, Vice Admiral Abbas, who assumed office on October 30, said he was in Delta to assess the operational readiness of units under his command, identify challenges, and strengthen strategies for protecting critical oil and gas infrastructure.

    He added that Delta remained a familiar terrain, having previously served in the Central Naval Command.

    Abbas said, “The purpose of my visit is to keep myself abreast of what is happening in our formations. Delta State hosts a lot of the nation’s critical oil and gas infrastructure, and the need to protect it cannot be overemphasized.

    “I am here to see what we are doing right, what needs adjustment, and what challenges exist.”

    The CNS expressed appreciation to Governor Oborevwori for the support given to the Navy and other security agencies, noting that improved calm in the state’s waterways had contributed to increased oil production.

    “I was at the base and saw new developments that were not there when I left. I thank you for that support. We request your continued collaboration so we can have a smooth sail in our operations.”

    The visit ended with assurances from both parties to deepen cooperation for the security of Delta State, the Niger Delta region, and Nigeria’s national economy.

  • Nigeria hands over revamped warship to Benin Navy

    Nigeria hands over revamped warship to Benin Navy

    The Nigerian Navy has handed over the rehabilitated Benin Navy Ship (BNS) Matelot Brice Kpomassé to the Republic of Benin, marking the successful completion of the vessel’s first docking and overhaul.

    Casting off Thursday morning from the Naval Dockyard Limited (NDL) on Victoria Island in Lagos, where it was overhauled, the warship set sail for Cotonou on its homeward voyage.

    Speaking during the ceremony, the Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, said the refit exemplified the practical benefits of regional collaboration under the Yaoundé Architecture – the framework guiding joint maritime operations among Gulf of Guinea (GoG) nations.

    Abbas, who was represented by the Admiral Superintendent of Naval Dockyard, Rear Admiral Ibrahim Shehu, said: “One of the key components of maritime security is the ability to deploy assets effectively for joint operations

    “Through the capacity available at the Naval Dockyard and the guidance of our political and military leadership, we have created an environment that ensures both Nigeria and the Republic of Benin have more operational vessels for shared patrols and enhanced maritime surveillance.”

    The CNS noted that the collaboration between both navies was facilitated through the Joint Maritime Command Centre (JMCC) in Cotonou, which promotes intelligence sharing and operational coordination among member states. “Maintenance of naval assets is capital-intensive, but our proximity and established maintenance capacity have enabled us to provide cost-effective technical support to the Benin Navy,” he added.

    The CNS announced that several Benin Navy vessels have been successfully refitted at the Dockyard with two more ships expected for delivery within the next few weeks.

    “Our goal is to complete the remaining three vessels before the end of this year or early next year. The Benin Navy has expressed satisfaction with our work, and we are finalising an annual maintenance agreement that underscores their confidence in our technical expertise,” he said.

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    Abbas said the dockyard adheres strictly to international standards and recognised classification rules in all repair works.

    “Our welders, mechanics, and technicians are certified and periodically evaluated to meet global standards,” he said, adding that the partnership reflected a model of regional self-reliance that reduces dependence on costly foreign facilities.

    Responding to reporters’ questions, Rear Admiral Shehu stated that the success of the Nigeria-Benin partnership has attracted interest from other Gulf of Guinea nations, including Equatorial Guinea, Congo, and Gabon. “Their defense advisors have approached our Defense Intelligence Agency for insights into the model.

    “While discussions are still ongoing, we are optimistic that this cooperative approach will soon extend across the region, strengthening defense ties and promoting a safer Gulf of Guinea,” he said.

    The Director of Military Organisation and Personnel of Benin Republic, Captain Mohamed Idrissou, who represented the Chief of Naval Staff of the Republic of Benin, Commodore Alexandre Hounkpatin, hailed the Nigerian Navy for its professionalism and commitment. “Having a reliable partner just two hours away from our base ensures rapid technical intervention and keeps our ships mission-ready,” Captain Idrissou said. “This partnership is a remarkable example of regional cooperation in action.”

  • Revamped Benin Navy warship departs Lagos on homeward voyage

    Revamped Benin Navy warship departs Lagos on homeward voyage

    The Nigerian Navy has handed over the rehabilitated Benin Navy Ship (BNS) Matelot Brice Kpomassé, to the Republic of Benin, marking the successful completion of the vessel’s first docking and overhaul.

    Casting off from the Naval Dockyard Limited (NDL), Victoria Island, Lagos, where it was overhauled, Thursday morning, the warship set sail for Cotonou on its homeward voyage.

    Speaking during the ceremony, the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, said the refit exemplified the practical benefits of regional collaboration under the Yaoundé Architecture- the framework guiding joint maritime operations among Gulf of Guinea (GoG) nations.

    Abbas who was represented by the

    Admiral Superintendent, Naval Dockyard, Rear Admiral Ibrahim Shehu, said: “One of the key components of maritime security is the ability to deploy assets effectively for joint operations

    “Through the capacity available at the Naval Dockyard and the guidance of our political and military leadership, we have created an environment that ensures both Nigeria and the Republic of Benin have more operational vessels for shared patrols and enhanced maritime surveillance.”

    He noted that the collaboration between both navies was facilitated through the Joint Maritime Command Centre (JMCC) in Cotonou, which promotes intelligence sharing and operational coordination among member states. “Maintenance of naval assets is capital-intensive, but our proximity and established maintenance capacity have enabled us to provide cost-effective technical support to the Benin Navy,” he added.

    The CNS revealed that several Benin Navy vessels have now been successfully refitted by the Dockyard, with two more ships expected for delivery within the next few weeks.

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    “Our goal is to complete the remaining three vessels before the end of this year or early next year. The Benin Navy has expressed satisfaction with our work, and we are finalizing an annual maintenance agreement that underscores their confidence in our technical expertise.”

    He emphasized that the Dockyard adheres strictly to international standards and recognized classification rules in all repair works. “Our welders, mechanics, and technicians are certified and periodically evaluated to meet global standards,” he said, adding that the partnership reflected a model of regional self-reliance that reduces dependence on costly foreign facilities.

    Responding to questions during an interview, Rear Admiral Shehu disclosed that the success of the Nigeria-Benin partnership has attracted interest from other Gulf of Guinea nations, including Equatorial Guinea, Congo, and Gabon. “Their defense advisors have approached our Defense Intelligence Agency for insights into the model.

    “While discussions are still ongoing, we are optimistic that this cooperative approach will soon extend across the region, strengthening defense ties and promoting a safer Gulf of Guinea,” he said.

    Representing the Chief of Naval Staff of the Republic of Benin, Commodore Alexandre Hounkpatin, Captain Mohamed Idrissou, who is the Director of Military Organisation and Personnel, commended the Nigerian Navy for its professionalism and commitment. “Having a reliable partner just two hours away from our base ensures rapid technical intervention and keeps our ships mission-ready,” Captain Idrissou said. “This partnership is a remarkable example of regional cooperation in action.”

    He explained that Matelot Brice Kpomassé is the third Benin Navy vessel to undergo refit at the Naval Dockyard, with all three ships set to resume coastal patrols upon return. “Our fleet consists of vessels from different technical origins, both European and Chinese, each with unique maintenance needs. Before now, the lack of nearby facilities limited our capacity to maintain them. With Nigeria’s Dockyard, we have found a dependable partner that delivers world-class maintenance support,” he said.

    Captain Idrissou reaffirmed his country’s commitment to sustaining the partnership, noting that maritime insecurity remains a shared challenge in the Gulf of Guinea. “Every country in the region must build its capacity to secure its waters and avoid becoming the weak link in our collective maritime security chain,” he added.

  • Naval Dockyard hands over refit warship to Beninnois Navy

    Naval Dockyard hands over refit warship to Beninnois Navy

    The Nigerian Navy has handed over the refurbished Benin Navy Ship (BNS) Matelot Brice Kpomasse to the Republic of Benin Navy after an extensive refit at the Naval Dockyard Limited (NDL), Victoria Island, Lagos.

    The ceremony marked a major milestone in the ongoing partnership between the Nigerian and Beninese navies aimed at enhancing naval capacity and fostering South–South cooperation in the Gulf of Guinea.

    Speaking at the event, Admiral Superintendent, Naval Dockyard Limited, Rear Admiral Ibrahim Shehu, said the refit was part of an agreement between the NDL and the Republic of Benin Navy to overhaul six of its ships in two phases.

    He announced that BNS Matelot Brice Kpomasse was the third vessel to be completed under the first phase, following the successful repair and return to service of BNS Pendjari and BNS Couffo.

    “The docking and refit of Benin Republic Navy ships at the Naval Dockyard is a significant milestone in bolstering regional capacity for maritime security and military cooperation between both navies,” the Admiral said. “This is the third time the Dockyard has undertaken work on an international navy ship, underscoring its growing status as a strategic force multiplier in Nigeria’s maritime ecosystem.”

    Shehu noted that the refit involved extensive technical work, including cropping and replating of hull sections, reconstruction of deck fittings and vents, overhaul of engines, gearboxes, and generators, as well as refurbishment of steering and propulsion systems.

    “These repairs restored the vessel to full operational status, enabling it to effectively fulfil its maritime security duties in Benin’s territorial waters,” he added.

    He expressed gratitude to the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, for his visionary leadership and unwavering support.

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    He lauded the Beninese Navy for its trust in the Dockyard’s technical capabilities, emphasizing that the successful completion of the project reflected the Nigerian Navy’s commitment to regional collaboration and indigenous ship maintenance capacity.

    Representative of the Chief of Naval Staff of Benin Republic, Captain Mohamed Idrissou, who is also the country’s Director of Military Organisation and Personnel, hailed the refit as “a symbol of the fruitful partnership” between both nations and an exemplary model of effective South-South cooperation.

    “This ceremony is more than a technical milestone. It is a renewed expression of the undeniable prowess of the Nigerian Naval Dockyard Limited and the reliability of Nigeria as a close and trusted partner,” Idrissou said.

    He praised the Nigerian Navy for its professionalism, flexibility, and commitment throughout the 20-month refit, noting that the partnership had already yielded tangible results and contributed to collective maritime security efforts in the Gulf of Guinea.

    “The success we are celebrating today illustrates our shared determination to pool technical and operational capabilities to address common security challenges,” he said. “This cooperation complements our joint efforts under the Yaoundé Architecture and other regional security frameworks.”

    Addressing the ship’s crew, Idrissou charged them to uphold professionalism, discipline, and patriotism as they return to duty. “You are setting sail again on a vessel that now exudes modernity and strength. Operate her with pride, protect her with diligence, and serve your nation with honour,” he said.

    The BNS Matelot Brice Kpomasse is a deep-sea patrol vessel designed for surveillance, anti-piracy, and coastal defense operations. Its refurbishment in Nigeria underscores the growing technical capacity of the Naval Dockyard Limited, which has expanded its services beyond national borders to support regional navies and commercial maritime operators.

    Officials from both countries reaffirmed their commitment to deepen collaboration in ship maintenance, intelligence sharing, and joint naval exercises to secure the Gulf of Guinea, one of the world’s most strategic and piracy-prone maritime corridors.

    “Today’s handover is not just about a ship. It is about trust, partnership, and our shared commitment to safer African waters.”

  • Navy rescues 11 passengers from sinking boat

    Navy rescues 11 passengers from sinking boat

    The Nigerian Navy (NN) said its operatives rescued 11 passengers from a sinking speedboat in Bonny River, Rivers State.

    It revealed this in a statement by Director of Naval Information (DINFO) Commodore Aiwiyor Adams-Aliu, adding that the boat departed Nembe Waterside Jetty, Port Harcourt en route Coal Beach Jetty, Bonny Island, when it developed engine failure midstream and began taking in water near the Federal Ocean Terminal, Onne.

    According to the statement, the victims, comprising six males and five females, were rescued on November 4, by personnel attached to Forward Operating Base (FOB) Bonny.

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    “The swift response of the FOB Bonny patrol team under heavy rainfall prevented a major tragedy, and all rescued passengers were safely taken to the Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas Jetty for medical checks and subsequently handed over to the Marine Police for reunification with their families,” the Navy said.

    The statement also said the Navy intensified its anti-crude oil theft operations across the Niger Delta region with the deactivation of many Illegal Refining Sites (IRS) in four locations on Wednesday, 5 November.

    “First, personnel of FOB Escravos deactivated two illegal refining sites at Obodo Omadino Community in Warri South-West Local Government Area of Delta State while the Nigerian Navy Ship PATHFINDER patrol team uncovered and deactivated an illegal refining site containing three cooking ovens, six reservoirs, sacks, jerrycans, and dugout pits filled with stolen crude oil and illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) around the Bakana and Isaka general areas of Rivers State. “Similarly, FOB Bonny personnel dismantled an active illegal refining site at Eyamba Community in Bonny Local Government Area of Rivers State, and the Nigerian Navy Ship DELTA patrol team deactivated another site at Opumani Creek in Warri South Local Government Area, Delta State.
    “These operations underscore the Nigerian Navy’s renewed efforts under the leadership of the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, to ensure maritime safety, protect critical national assets, and promote lawful economic activities while sustaining the efforts to eradicate crude oil theft and all forms of illegality within Nigeria’s maritime domain,” it added.

  • Ilaje communities accuse Nigerian Navy of assault, arson, theft

    Ilaje communities accuse Nigerian Navy of assault, arson, theft

    Residents of Obe Nla, Obajedo, and Obe Adun – oil-rich communities in Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State – have accused personnel of the Nigerian Navy Forward Operating Base (FOB) of launching violent attacks that left homes destroyed and residents brutalized.

    Obe Nla is notably the hometown of Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa.

    The allegations were contained in a petition addressed to the Assistant Inspector-General of Police, Zone 17, Akure, copy obtained by the Nation on Saturday.

    The petition, written on behalf of the affected residents by Ilaje Omuro Worldwide Connect, was signed by their solicitor, Barrister Obayem Williams of J.W. Obayemi & Co.

    According to the petition, naval officers allegedly invaded the communities on Sunday, October 19, harassing residents, setting properties ablaze, and inflicting injuries on several persons.

    The residents described the attack as a “lawless and militarized operation” that mirrored a war-style assault.

    “The naval personnel stormed the affected communities in a manner reminiscent of a war operation, assaulting innocent residents, vandalizing homes, and molesting women.

    “A particularly disturbing incident reportedly occurred at Obe Adun, where naval operatives allegedly raided a local bakery, beat up workers, and carted away N14 million said to be proceeds from two weeks of bread sales,” the petition read.

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    The petition further alleged that several families have been rendered homeless due to the destruction, while others have fled for fear of further attacks after the officers allegedly threatened to return.

    Describing the actions as a “gross abuse of power” and a “flagrant violation of human rights,” the group called for urgent police intervention and a thorough investigation to bring those responsible to justice.

    “Our client calls for urgent intervention to restore peace, ensure the safety of the affected residents, and forestall further breakdown of law and order,” it added.

    Meanwhile, Ilaje Omuro Worldwide Connect has threatened to stage a peaceful protest in Igbokoda against the action of the Naval personnel.

    The demonstration, according to a letter signed by the group’s spokesperson, Comrade Babatunde Omobone, aims to condemn what it described as “incessant killings and brutality of community residents by naval personnel.”

    The group also requested police protection before, during, and after the rally.

    However, in a bid to prevent tension from escalating, the association issued a set of conditions for possible postponement of the protest.

    It urged the Ilaje Local Government Chairman to take immediate conciliatory steps, including:

    The group warned that failure to meet these demands would lead to the continuation of their planned demonstration.

  • Navy appoints pilot as new spokesman

    Navy appoints pilot as new spokesman

    The Nigerian Navy (NN) has appointed Commodore A. O. Odejobi as the new Director of Naval Information (DINFO). 

    Odejobi, a naval pilot and seasoned seaman, will take over from the current DINFO, Commodore Aiwiyor Adams-Aliu. 

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    A signal sighted by The Nation showed that Commodore Adams-Aliu has been redeployed to NNS LUGARD in Lokoja, Kogi State, as the Commanding and is expected to resume there on or before November 1.

    ,Commodore Odejobi, presently the Commander NNS Madueke, Enugu, will assume office as DINFO on November 7, it was gathered. 

  • Nigerian Navy, French, regional allies hold joint exercise for improved security

    Nigerian Navy, French, regional allies hold joint exercise for improved security

    To boost security in the Gulf of Guinea (GoG)region, the Nigerian Navy (NN), her French and regional counterparts have launched an amphibious exercise codenamed Crocodile Lift. 

    Flagged off onboard the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) KADA at the Naval Base in Apapa on Wednesday, the three day multinational exercise would have more than six warships, and over 700 soldiers including 650 from the French Navy, working together in the GoG to stamp out all forms of illegailties. 

    Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Ikechukwu Ogalla, while flagging off the exercise, said the NN has deployed five warships, two aircrafts and two detachment of elite Special Boats Services (SBS) detachment. 

    Ogalla, who was represented by the Chief of Naval Transformation, Rear Admiral Monday Unurhiere, said the exercise was a key platform to enhance operational readiness, amphibious warfare capabilities, regional and interagency cooperations.

    “This exercise aims to assess the Nigerian Navy’s capacity for amphibious landing operations and strengthen maritime security efforts in collaboration with allied forces. 

    “It is designed to enhance our ability to curb threats in our maritime domain, safeguard national resources, and support the Federal Government’s regional security initiatives. 

    “The Nigerian Navy is deploying a total of five ships, two helicopters, and SBS detachments for the exercise, which includes combined sea maneuvers and amphibious operations in conjunction with the French Navy. 

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    “The operation will simulate scenarios to counter sea robbery, crude oil theft, illegal fishing, and other maritime crimes in the GoG. 

    “The Navy has maintained a zero-piracy record since Nigeria was removed from the list of piracy-prone nations in 2022. This is a result of sustained naval presence, improved surveillance, and exercises like CROCODILE LIFT,” said Ogalla. 

    The Officer in Tactical Command (OTC) and Flag Officer Commanding (FOC), Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral Michael Oamen, said Crocodile Lift was a critical annual capacity-building operation.

    “This exercise underscores our commitment to regional cooperation and maritime safety. The Western Naval Command remains fully aligned with the Chief of the Naval Staff’s vision for a safe and secure maritime domain.”

    Rear Admiral Oamen reaffirmed the Navy’s resolve to continue implementing both kinetic and non-kinetic strategies to deter maritime threats and protect legitimate commercial activities within Nigeria’s waters,” said Oamen. 

    Speaking on behalf of France, the Commanding Officer, French Landing Helicopter Dock TONNERRE, Captain Arnaud Bolelli, 

    emphasized that their presence in the region aligned with France’s strategic interest in ensuring freedom of navigation and maritime security, particularly for the approximately 70,000 French citizens in the region.

    He confirmed that TONNERRE with its 650 personnel have been in the GoG region on a three month deployment. 

    “With 650 personnel aboard, we aim to deepen interoperability between our forces and strengthen joint efforts to combat illegal maritime activities in the region.”