The Nigerian Navy, in collaboration with the French Navy, has officially launched Exercise Crocodile Lift 2024, a multinational maritime security operation aimed at enhancing regional stability and combatting maritime crimes in the Gulf of Guinea.

The event, which took place onboard Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) KADA, underscores the commitment of the Nigerian Navy and its international partners to safeguarding maritime territories and fostering a thriving blue economy.

Representing the Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, Rear Admiral Shehu Usman Gombe highlighted the significance of the exercise. “This year’s Crocodile Lift builds upon the success of Exercise Grand African Nemo by focusing on amphibious operations,” he noted. “It offers a unique platform to enhance regional collaboration and develop African-led solutions to transborder maritime threats.”

The two-day exercise, facilitated under the auspices of the French Commander-in-Chief for the Atlantic, features simulated amphibious operations aimed at combatting piracy, sea robbery, crude oil theft, and other criminal activities. Participating nations include Nigeria, France, Spain, the United Kingdom, and other Gulf of Guinea countries.

The Flag Officer Commanding (FOC), Western Naval Command (WNC), Rear Admiral Michael Gregory Oamen, represented by Chief Staff Officer Rear Admiral Abdul Hamid Baba-Inna, emphasized the operational importance of the exercise. “The objective of Crocodile Lift 2024 is to ensure freedom of navigation and create a secure maritime domain conducive to legitimate business activities,” he stated.

The FOC informed that the Nigerian Navy has deployed NNS KADA, two Special Boat Service detachments, and helicopters to enhance the operational scenarios.

On his part, French Consul-General, Laurent Favier, described the exercise as a testament to the enduring Franco-Nigerian maritime partnership, particularly as it precedes President Bola Tinubu’s upcoming state visit to France. “Crocodile Lift symbolizes our shared commitment to maritime security and reinforces the deep ties between our navies,” Favier said.

He reiterated France’s decade-long support for Nigeria in combating terrorism through intelligence sharing and capacity building.

In addition to bolstering maritime security, the exercise aims to foster professional exchanges, enhance interoperability between participating navies, and lay the groundwork for future multinational collaborations. Rear Admiral Gombe reaffirmed the Nigerian Navy’s dedication to protecting the country’s maritime territorial integrity, combatting maritime crimes, and fostering a thriving blue economy.

Participants were urged to approach the exercise with professionalism and dedication to achieve its objectives. Rear Admiral Gombe concluded by expressing gratitude to international partners for their support, stating, “We remain committed to building partnerships that advance maritime security in the Gulf of Guinea.”

Exercise Crocodile Lift 2024 serves as a crucial step toward regional maritime stability, strengthening international cooperation, and ensuring a secure environment for economic prosperity in Nigeria and beyond.