The Nigerian Navy recently announced a series of significant operations that led to the arrest of eight stowaways, the rescue of eight female victims of human trafficking, and the rescue of two drowning fishermen in Nigerian waterways. These operations, carried out between 9 and 13 July 2024, demonstrate the Navy’s ongoing commitment to maintaining security and safety within the nation’s maritime domain.
Commodore Adams-Aliu, the Director of Naval Information, provided details of these operations. He highlighted the Navy’s swift response and coordinated efforts that resulted in these successful interventions. One notable incident involved the foiling of a sea robbery attempt along the Uyenghe River in Mbo Local Government Area, where sea robbers targeted a supply vessel.
In a statement issued early Wednesday morning, Commodore Adams-Aliu said: “In the past week, from 9–13 July 2024, Nigerian Navy units across the Nation’s maritime domain rescued 8 female victims of human trafficking, 2 drowning fishermen, and arrested 8 male stowaways. Additionally, a sea robbery attempt was foiled within the same period. Specifically, on 9 July 2024, the Quick Response Team of the Nigerian Navy Forward Operating Base BADAGRY intercepted a wooden passenger boat with 8 females aged between 18–23 years en route to the Benin Republic. Upon interrogation, it became obvious that they were being trafficked by a yet-to-be-identified agent. The victims were later handed over to the National Agency for Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) while further investigation to identify the agent and trafficking syndicate is ongoing.
The rescue operation on 9 July was a critical intervention, as the victims were young women aged between 18 and 23 years. They were found in a wooden passenger boat heading towards the Benin Republic. Upon questioning, it became clear that these women were victims of human trafficking, orchestrated by an unidentified agent. The Navy handed them over to the National Agency for Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) for further care and investigation. This operation highlights the Navy’s role in combating human trafficking and protecting vulnerable individuals from exploitation.
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Another significant incident occurred on 10 July 2024, when Nigerian Navy personnel from the Forward Operating Base IBAKA in Akwa Ibom State intercepted suspected sea robbers. These robbers were attempting to rob a supply vessel along the Uyenghe River in Mbo Local Government Area. The confrontation was intense, with the robbers opening fire on the Navy personnel, who responded with heavy gunfire. The robbers eventually retreated into the creeks, and the robbery attempt was successfully thwarted. This incident underscores the dangers faced by the Navy in protecting maritime activities and ensuring the safety of vessels operating in Nigerian waters.
On 12 July 2024, another rescue operation was conducted by the Nigerian Navy personnel from the Forward Operating Base LEKKI. They rescued two fishermen who were drowning near the Lekki Anchorage Area, about 10 nautical miles from the Dangote Refinery at Ibeju-Lekki Local Government Area of Lagos State. The fishermen had been fishing when their boat capsized due to rough sea conditions. The Navy’s timely intervention saved their lives and brought them safely back to shore. This rescue operation highlights the Navy’s vigilance and readiness to respond to emergencies at sea, ensuring the safety of all individuals operating within Nigerian waters.
In a different incident, on 13 July 2024, the NIGERIAN NAVY SHIP BEECROFT patrol team arrested eight suspected stowaways in two speedboats. These individuals were attempting to board the MV NORTHERNLIGHT while it was underway along the Lagos Channel. The patrol team spotted the suspects trying to access the vessel through its rudder compartment. Upon interrogation, five of the suspects admitted that they were attempting to board the vessel to travel abroad. The suspects, along with their speedboats, were handed over to the Nigerian Immigration Service, Lagos State Port and Marine Command for further investigation. Commodore Adams-Aliu noted that the NNS BEECROFT has arrested a total of 33 stowaways between January and July 2024, indicating the Navy’s ongoing efforts to prevent illegal migration and unauthorized access to vessels.
Commodore Adams-Aliu added: “It is important to remind all operators and stakeholders within the Nation’s maritime domain that under the leadership of the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, the Nigerian Navy is poised to keep Nigerian waters safe and secure for legitimate economic activities. Consequently, nefarious elements are advised to desist from perpetuating any form of illegalities within Nigeria’s territorial waters.”
This statement underscores the Nigerian Navy’s commitment to ensuring the security and safety of the nation’s maritime domain. Under the leadership of Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, the Navy continues to demonstrate its resolve to combat illegal activities and protect legitimate economic operations. The Navy’s recent successes in rescuing victims, foiling robbery attempts, and arresting stowaways highlight its effectiveness and dedication to its mission.
In conclusion, the Nigerian Navy’s operations between 9 and 13 July 2024 exemplify its crucial role in maintaining maritime security. The rescue of human trafficking victims, the prevention of sea robberies, and the arrest of stowaways underscore the Navy’s vigilance and readiness to protect Nigerian waters. These actions not only ensure the safety of individuals but also contribute to the overall security and stability of the nation’s maritime domain. The Navy’s continued efforts to combat illegal activities and safeguard legitimate economic activities are vital for the prosperity and well-being of the nation.
