The Western Naval Command (WNC) has stepped up its efforts to secure Lagos' waterways, a crucial component of Nigeria's economy. Under the leadership of Rear Admiral Abdullahi Abubakar Mustapha, the Command has strengthened engagements with sister security agencies, port authorities, and private-sector operators. This move aims to create a safer maritime environment for national development. The WNC's activities over the past three months have reflected a comprehensive approach to maritime security.
A significant development during this period was the delivery of Tug Commander Francis Kolawole, built in China to enhance harbour and fleet-support operations of the Nigerian Navy. The tug's delivery was followed by a visit from Engineer Kola Balogun, chairman of EPAIL Nigeria, to discuss the vessel's effective utilisation, maintenance, and long-term sustainability. Balogun reaffirmed his company's commitment to supporting the Navy, stressing the importance of continuous technical support and proper maintenance.
The WNC has also prioritized building a fit and ready force, with over 1,500 personnel participating in its Second Quarter Route March on June 27. The exercise, which took place in Lagos, aimed to enhance physical fitness and operational preparedness. Rear Admiral Mustapha emphasized the importance of discipline, endurance, and teamwork, noting that naval personnel must remain physically and mentally prepared for the demands of sea and land operations.
Inter-agency cooperation has been another key strand of the Command's recent activities. On July 8, Rear Admiral Mustapha paid a courtesy visit to the Assistant Inspector General of Police, Zone 2 Command Headquarters, Lagos, Moshood Jimoh. The meeting focused on strengthening cooperation between the Navy and Police, particularly in securing creeks and waterways. The two parties discussed the need for greater use of technology, intelligence sharing, and coordinated operations.
The Command's engagement with the Nigerian Ports Authority on July 28 further demonstrated the economic dimension of maritime security. Rear Admiral Mustapha visited the NPA managing director, Dr Abubakar Dantsoho, to consolidate the longstanding partnership between the Navy and NPA. The meeting focused on strengthening port security and facilitating trade, highlighting the importance of Nigeria's ports to the national economy.
The WNC has also expanded its security engagement to major infrastructure operators, including Hitech Construction Company Limited. On July 28, Rear Admiral Mustapha and the General Officer Commanding 81 Division Nigerian Army, Major General Adebayo Babalola, visited Hitech Construction to sustain security support for the company's personnel, equipment, and project sites. The company is involved in major national infrastructure projects, including roads, bridges, and marine installations.
The WNC's efforts to enhance security partnerships and protect critical infrastructure reflect its commitment to securing Lagos' waterways and supporting national development. The Command's engagements with sister agencies, private operators, and infrastructure operators aim to create a safer maritime environment, which is essential for the country's economy. The WNC's activities demonstrate the importance of collaboration and coordination in addressing maritime security challenges.
Key points
- The Western Naval Command has intensified engagements with sister security agencies and private operators to secure Lagos' waterways.
- The Command has strengthened its personnel readiness and operational capability through exercises and new equipment, including the Tug Commander Francis Kolawole.
- The WNC's efforts aim to create a safer maritime environment, which is essential for Nigeria's economy and national development.
