There is no doubt that the Nigerian Navy since it’s establishment in 1957 has grown from an offshoot of the Nigerian Marines to a formidable component of the nation’s security architecture, and a major player in the Gulf of Guinea. Not withstanding, the Nigerian Navy over the years has become a major force especially in execution of it’s mandate of checking criminal activities in the nation’s territorial waters.
Speaking at a Press briefing to flag off it’s 66th years anniversary and program of activities, the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Awwal Gambo said the Navy upon its fleet recapitalization efforts, has achieved significant milestones in ensuring improved security for the nation’s economic prosperity.
Represented by the Chief of Policy and Plans, Rear Admiral Saidu Garba, the Naval Chief said there has been a successive decline in reported cases of piracy within the Nigerian maritime domain,a feat responsible for Nigeria’s exclusion from the list of piracy prone countries.
He further noted that the strategic collaboration with the international regional partners has led to the arrest of one MV Chayanee Naree in October 2021, for conveying 33 kilograms of cocaine worth over $1.5 million dollars from Brazil to Lagos.
Rear Admiral Garba further stated that the ongoing Operation DAKATAR DA BARAWO in synergy with the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited, has performed satisfactorily in the fight against crude oil theft and illegal oil bunkering.
Some of the activities lined up to commemorate the 66th Nigeria Navy week which commenced from 24th May – 1st June 2022, includes for the NNS KADA arrival to Nigeria on 27th May 2022 and International Maritime Conference and Regional Maritime Exercise, 2022, billed for Onne Port Harcourt with the theme, “Optimising Collaboration for Maritime Security and Socio-Economic Development in Africa”.
