Nigerian Navy and France Launch Combined Maneuvers to Enhance Maritime Security
In a bid to strengthen maritime security in the Gulf of Guinea, the Nigerian Navy has embarked on a joint naval exercise with France and other countries in the region. The exercise, known as Exercise Crocodile Lift And Grand African Nemo, was initiated in response to the prevailing security challenges in the Gulf of Guinea which pose a significant threat to Nigeria’s well-being.
Speaking at the flag-off ceremony, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, the Chief of Naval Staff, highlighted the disturbing trend of criminal activities in the maritime domain, particularly targeting Nigeria’s economic lifeline through crude oil theft, illegal oil bunkering, and other illicit acts. He emphasized the need for a comprehensive and collaborative approach involving national and international efforts to combat the numerous maritime threats faced by countries in the Gulf of Guinea.
Admiral Ogalla underscored the importance of sustained joint exercises in ensuring the security of the Gulf of Guinea, stating that Exercises Crocodile Lift And Grand African Nemo have become annual events. These exercises have significantly enhanced collaboration in addressing maritime insecurities such as crude oil theft, illegal oil bunkering, piracy, sea robbery, hostage-taking, as well as illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing.
Furthermore, Admiral Ogalla commended the seamless coordination displayed during a recent incident involving a Nigerian Navy Ship and a French Navy Ship on March 27, 2023. This successful joint operation demonstrated the essence and value of the exercises in enhancing maritime security operations in the Gulf of Guinea for the prosperity of member states.
Rear Admiral Muhammad Abdullahi, the Flag Officer Commanding Western Naval Command, provided insights into the exercise. He explained that Exercise Crocodile Lift 2023, in its second edition, focuses on a fictional scenario addressing piracy and hostage-taking. This amphibious exercise, carried out in partnership with the French Navy, aims to exchange experiences, test practical skills, and assess the preparedness of naval personnel in tackling maritime threats within the Gulf of Guinea.
Exercise Crocodile Lift 2023 will be conducted in four phases: preparatory, movement, execution, and termination. It involves Task Group 23.1 and the French Warship FNS MISTRAL in a hostage rescue scenario. The exercise, commencing on October 9, 2023, will be followed by Exercise Grand African Nemo, an annual exercise co-organized by France, Togo, Benin, and Nigeria. This collaborative exercise aims to strengthen the coordination of efforts against maritime insecurity and contribute to the freedom of navigation in the Gulf of Guinea.
The joint maneuvers between the Nigerian Navy and France reflect a commitment to enhancing maritime security in the Gulf of Guinea. By conducting regular exercises and promoting international collaboration, these efforts aim to safeguard Nigeria’s economic resources and the well-being of the entire region.
