The Nigerian Navy has deployed 15 warships and three helicopters to the Niger Delta region as part of this year’s Chief of Naval Staff Sea Exercise.
The operation, named Exercise Dein Abaji—meaning “Calm Waters” in the Kalabari language—aims to improve maritime security, boost oil production, and protect the Gulf of Guinea from threats.
Speaking at the flag-off ceremony in Onne, Rivers State, the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, emphasized the importance of the exercise in enhancing Nigeria’s maritime security and economy.
“We are committed to ensuring increased crude oil production by reducing crimes in our waters,” Ogalla said. “This exercise will strengthen our readiness for combat operations and foster interagency cooperation to achieve national security objectives.”
The Navy’s maritime security efforts have already led to significant improvements, with increased legitimate shipping activities and reports of higher oil production from various companies. “Several companies have reported 100 percent terminal factor,” Ogalla noted.
During the exercise, the Navy will work closely with maritime stakeholders to share information and strengthen its operational capabilities.
Ogalla also thanked President Bola Tinubu for his unwavering support of the Nigerian Navy, alongside the Minister of Defence and the Minister of State for Defence. He further acknowledged Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State for his contributions.
