Overview of Exercise ‘DEIN ABAJI’
The Nigerian Navy has commenced its annual Chief of Naval Staff sea exercise, deploying 15 warships and three helicopters to strengthen maritime security and address threats in the Gulf of Guinea. The 2024 exercise, codenamed ‘DEIN ABAJI’—meaning ‘Calm Waters’ in the Kalabari language of Rivers State—aims to demonstrate the navy’s capability to safeguard Nigeria’s maritime environment for economic prosperity and regional stability.
Flag-Off Ceremony Insights
Speaking at the flag-off ceremony held in Onne, Rivers State, the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, reiterated the navy’s commitment to ensuring increased crude oil production and enhancing national security. Ogalla emphasized the importance of interagency cooperation and information sharing among maritime stakeholders to achieve these objectives.
“I am confident that the exercise will positively impact our readiness for combat operations and expose other maritime agencies to the benefits of interagency cooperation,” Ogalla stated.
Focus on Maritime Security and Economic Prosperity
Vice Admiral Ogalla highlighted the significant improvements in maritime security operations, which have led to a reduction in criminal activities in Nigerian waters. These efforts have bolstered legitimate shipping activities and contributed to a notable increase in crude oil production.
“There has been a rise in oil production, with several companies reporting 100 percent terminal factor. In collaboration with relevant agencies, we will continue to make efforts to ensure increased crude oil production,” he said.
Collaboration and Support
The Chief of Naval Staff acknowledged the critical role of cooperation with other maritime stakeholders in achieving national security goals. By leveraging shared information and resources, the navy aims to enhance its operational effectiveness and ensure a safe maritime environment.
Ogalla also expressed gratitude for the unwavering support of President Bola Tinubu, the Minister of Defence, the Minister of State for Defence, and Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara. He noted that their guidance and contributions have been instrumental in advancing the navy’s mission.
Enhancing National Security Objectives
Exercise ‘DEIN ABAJI’ is expected to showcase the Nigerian Navy’s operational readiness and its commitment to protecting the country’s maritime borders. By integrating advanced naval assets and fostering interagency collaboration, the navy aims to deter maritime crimes and ensure the security of critical economic resources such as crude oil.
Conclusion
The deployment of 15 warships and three helicopters underscores the Nigerian Navy’s determination to secure the Gulf of Guinea and bolster Nigeria’s maritime economy. As Exercise ‘DEIN ABAJI’ unfolds, the focus remains on maintaining ‘calm waters’ through proactive security measures and robust cooperation among maritime stakeholders.
