Navy Declares Stepped-Up War on Cross River Maritime Criminality

The Nigerian Navy has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to intensifying operations against all forms of criminal activities at sea, including piracy, crude oil theft, illegal bunkering, and smuggling within Cross River State. This declaration was made on Thursday by Rear Admiral Chiedozie Okehie, the Flag Officer Commanding, Eastern Naval Command.

Speaking at the conclusion of 'Exercise Littoral Fury,' a three-day maiden Intra-Command Maritime Tactical Live Firing Exercise held in Cross River State, Rear Admiral Okehie highlighted the exercise's objective. He stated that it was designed to immerse naval personnel in real-world operational scenarios, thereby enhancing their capacity for swift and effective responses to maritime security threats. Furthermore, the exercise aimed to bolster collaborative and synchronized efforts among various security agencies operating in the maritime domain.

Okehie emphasized the unique operational complexities presented by the littoral environment, which necessitate specialized skills, appropriate tactical approaches, efficient communication, and seamless cooperation among security outfits. He reiterated, “The littoral environment presents unique operational challenges that require specialised skills, appropriate tactics, effective communication and seamless coordination among security agencies.” He further noted that the Eastern Naval Command consistently leverages technology, innovation, and intelligence-driven strategies to improve its ability to detect and counter maritime crimes.

Representing the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, Rear Admiral Suleiman Ibrahim, the Flag Officer Commanding, Central Naval Command, underscored the exercise as a testament to the Navy’s operational readiness, tactical prowess, and discipline. Ibrahim explained that the drill forms a crucial part of ongoing efforts to cultivate a modern, agile, and professional naval force capable of safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime interests and advancing national security objectives.

He detailed how the exercise enabled participating gunboats, air assets, and operational units to rigorously test their weapon systems, refine inter-service communication, and validate joint littoral manoeuvre doctrines. According to Ibrahim, maintaining maritime dominance and ensuring the mission-readiness of naval personnel hinges on realistic training. He asserted, “Rigorous training and realistic operational drills are not optional activities. They are the prize of maritime dominance.”

Ibrahim also highlighted the strategic importance of Dayspring Island as the exercise location, noting its transformation from a major militant stronghold to a secure naval base. He expressed confidence that the Navy’s increased presence would enhance the safety of lives and property, thereby stimulating commercial activities in and around the Calabar and Dayspring channels, including waterways extending towards Cameroon. “By the presence of the Navy here, it’s going to increase commerce; it will provide safety of lives and property,” Ibrahim stated. He added that improved security would boost resident confidence, facilitate trade, and potentially generate greater revenue for the Federal Government.

The exercise also provided personnel with the opportunity to train with a diverse range of weaponry, from 9mm pistols to automatic grenade launchers, as they simulated common scenarios encountered during maritime patrols. Ibrahim urged all personnel to effectively apply the lessons learned from the exercise to their routine patrols and operational duties.

Navy Captain Mohammed Lawal commended the leadership of the Eastern Naval Command and all participating personnel for the successful execution of the exercise. Lawal noted that the exercise effectively showcased tactical operational readiness, precision marksmanship, and the Navy’s capability to project maritime power across both land and sea environments. He extended appreciation to sister services, other security agencies, umpires, local organizers, and personnel from the Nigerian Air Force’s 305 Special Mobility Group for their invaluable contributions. Lawal concluded by affirming that participating officers and ratings displayed exemplary weapon proficiency, physical endurance, and tactical discipline throughout the exercise.