The Nigerian Navy has launched Exercise DEIN ABAJI ("Calm Waters"), deploying 15 warships and three surveillance helicopters in a significant effort to enhance maritime security, combat illegal activities, and bolster crude oil production in the Niger Delta.
The 2024 Chief of Naval Staff Annual Sea Inspection commenced in Onne, Rivers State, highlighting the Navy’s determination to secure Nigeria’s maritime environment and support economic growth.
During the flag-off ceremony, Chief of Naval Staff Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla reaffirmed the Navy's commitment to national security and collaboration with maritime stakeholders.
He emphasized the exercise's importance in improving the Navy’s combat readiness and fostering interagency cooperation.
According to Ogalla, maritime security operations have already yielded results, reducing criminal activities in Nigerian waters and increasing legitimate shipping activities.
These efforts have led to rising oil production, with several companies now reporting a 100% terminal factor.
Vice Admiral Ogalla expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Ministers of Defence and State for Defence, and Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara for their steadfast support of the Navy’s operations.
Rear Admiral Saheed Akinwande, the Flag Officer Commanding the Eastern Naval Command, explained the scope of activities planned for the exercise, which include anti-piracy operations, anti-crude oil theft measures, fleet maneuvers, emergency drills, and amphibious raid exercises.
These operations are designed to demonstrate the Navy’s readiness to respond effectively to maritime threats and protect Nigeria's waterways to ensure economic prosperity.
The Chief of Naval Staff underscored the Navy's capability to secure safer shipping routes and facilitate sustainable maritime activities in the Gulf of Guinea and beyond.
The exercise reinforces the Navy’s role in safeguarding the nation’s waters while fostering economic growth and enhancing national security.