The Nigerian Navy has reiterated its role as a critical force in safeguarding the nation’s maritime domain, emphasizing its commitment to combating oil theft, piracy, and other maritime crimes. This was outlined in a recent statement highlighting the Navy’s accomplishments and future initiatives.
With an Exclusive Economic Zone spanning 84,000 square nautical miles and substantial oil and gas reserves, Nigeria’s maritime domain is vital to its economic stability. The Navy, guided by its statutory roles, has intensified operations to address security threats and create a conducive environment for economic growth. Its anti-oil theft measures, including intelligence-led patrols, Maritime Domain Awareness, and Choke Point Management, have yielded remarkable results.
Over the past four years, the Navy confiscated over 8.1 million barrels of stolen crude oil, 86,500 metric tons of illegally refined diesel, and 21 million liters of kerosene. Additionally, 392 suspected oil thieves were arrested, and over 1,500 illegal refining sites deactivated. These efforts have significantly boosted Nigeria’s daily crude oil production, which rose from 1.23 million barrels in October 2022 to 1.8 million barrels in October 2024.
The Navy has also fostered regional collaboration, hosting multinational exercises such as Crocodile Lift and Grand African Nemo, involving naval forces from countries like France, the UK, and Spain. These exercises aim to enhance international cooperation in combating maritime crimes in the Gulf of Guinea.
However, the Navy has faced challenges, including false allegations aimed at undermining its efforts. Incidents involving vessels like MT PRAISEL and MT LADY MARTINA were proven to be unfounded, as the Navy’s investigations upheld its operational integrity. Such disruptions, it stated, are detrimental to Nigeria’s oil sector and investment climate.
Looking ahead, the Nigerian Navy will host the 2024 Symposium of Heads of Navies of Gulf of Guinea countries from November 26 to 28 in Abuja. Themed “Maritime Security and Sustainable Development in the Gulf of Guinea,” the event will focus on enhancing regional cooperation, maritime law enforcement, and the implementation of the Yaoundé Code of Conduct.
The Navy reaffirmed its dedication to professionalism and collaboration with stakeholders, emphasizing its role in ensuring maritime security and national development. It also expressed optimism that ongoing efforts would bolster the ease of doing business in Nigeria’s oil sector and attract increased investment.
As the Navy continues its mission, its leadership remains committed to a whole-of-society approach to protecting the nation’s resources and ensuring a secure maritime environment.