The Nigerian Navy has mobilised 10 vessels, two helicopters, and additional assets for a targeted operation aimed at combating maritime crimes such as piracy, sea robbery, and illegal trafficking across the Gulf of Guinea.
According to the Navy, the operation will focus on curbing arms and drug smuggling, crude oil theft, and illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing, alongside conducting search-and-seizure missions and other enforcement activities.
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The Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, made this known during the launch of the operation, codenamed Exercise Obangame Express 2026, aboard the Nigerian Navy Ship KADA in Onne, Rivers State, on Sunday. He was represented at the event by the Chief of Naval Operations, Rear Admiral P.E. Effah.
Abbas explained that the exercise, first introduced in 2010 by the United States Navy in partnership with navies across Gulf of Guinea countries, has evolved into a key platform for coordinated maritime security efforts in the region.
He noted that the annual drill continues to play a vital role in strengthening collaboration, improving interoperability, and reinforcing the collective determination of participating nations to secure their waters against emerging threats.
“The objectives of this exercise are well defined. They include deepening regional cooperation on maritime security, improving information sharing and domain awareness, and enhancing operational readiness,” he said.
He added that the exercise also aims to build the capacity of participating navies to effectively tackle both local and cross-border maritime crimes, including piracy, sea robbery, and illicit trafficking.
Abbas further highlighted the exercise’s contribution to strengthening diplomatic ties and fostering stronger naval partnerships, thereby reinforcing the region’s collective security framework.
“For this year’s exercise, the Nigerian Navy is deploying 10 ships, two helicopters, maritime surveillance assets, and personnel from the Special Boat Service.
“These will be engaged in carefully planned scenarios such as countering arms and drug trafficking, tackling crude oil theft, addressing illegal fishing, as well as conducting visit, board, search and seizure operations, search and rescue drills, and simulated hot pursuit missions,” he said.
He explained that the activities are designed to improve operational efficiency, test preparedness, and enhance coordinated responses to real-life maritime threats.
Abbas also expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu for his continued support for the Armed Forces and commended naval personnel for their professionalism and commitment.
“Through sustained collaboration, we can build on existing achievements and create a safer, more stable, and prosperous maritime environment for our region,” he added.
Earlier, the Flag Officer Commanding Eastern Naval Command, Rear Admiral C.D. Okehie, described the exercise as a major multinational maritime security initiative spanning West and Central Africa, supported by the United States Africa Command.
He noted that although the Gulf of Guinea is a critical global shipping corridor, it remains susceptible to evolving security challenges at sea.
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