By Milcah Tanimu
The Nigerian Navy has deployed 15 warships, three helicopters, and detachments from the Special Boat Service for its annual sea inspection exercise, Exercise Dein Abaji 2024. This special operation underscores Nigeria’s commitment to maritime security and its blue economy development.
Naval Exercise Focus: Strengthening Maritime Security
The Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, launched Exercise Dein Abaji aboard Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Kada at the Onne Dockyard in Rivers State on Sunday, December 8, 2024. The exercise will run from December 8 to December 11, 2024.
According to Admiral Ogalla, the annual sea inspection serves multiple purposes:
- Assessing Nigeria’s waters and fleet capabilities
- Evaluating troop readiness to combat maritime threats
- Strengthening interagency cooperation through collaborative efforts
Vice Admiral Ogalla highlighted that Dein Abaji, which translates to “Calm Waters” in the Kalabari dialect, aims to enhance Nigeria’s blue economy by addressing maritime security challenges.
Details of Deployment and Operational Goals
The 15 deployed warships include the following:
- NNS Kada
- NNS Dorina
- NNS Ibeno
- NNS Ikenne
- NNS Kano
- NNS Burutu
- NNS Sokoto
- NNS Zur
- NNS Chanawa
- DB Abuja
- NNS Andoni
- NNS Orji
- NNS Bomadi
- NNS Ekulu
These ships, combined with three helicopters and detachments from the Special Boat Service, aim to ensure operational readiness and combat maritime threats effectively.
Admiral Ogalla emphasized that by leveraging maritime stakeholder cooperation, the navy aims to strengthen national security through information sharing.
Impact on Economic Growth and Maritime Safety
The sea inspection also evaluates how naval operations are contributing to Nigeria’s legitimate shipping activities. Admiral Ogalla noted a reduction in criminal activities in Nigerian waters, which has boosted economic activity and crude oil production.
Highlights include:
- A 100% terminal factor increase reported by several companies.
- Enhanced surveillance technology and interagency collaboration leading to better maritime monitoring.
Rear Admiral Saheed Akinwande, the flag officer commanding the Eastern Naval Command, added that Exercise Dein Abaji would also assess key areas such as:
- Fleet operational responsiveness
- Logistical support capabilities
- Personnel training and overall preparedness
These evaluations are vital to ensure that the naval fleet remains ready to respond to evolving maritime security threats.
Looking Ahead: Nigeria’s Commitment to Maritime Security
The deployment of advanced ships, helicopters, and the Special Boat Service demonstrates Nigeria’s commitment to ensuring security in its waters, especially in the Gulf of Guinea. This exercise aligns with the country’s strategic efforts to maintain stability and economic growth through maritime safety.
The exercise signals a proactive approach by the Nigerian Navy to reduce piracy, combat illegal maritime activities, and strengthen economic opportunities linked to the blue economy.
