State of The Nation....Nigerian Navy Addresses Security Challenges at the 2024 Open Life Annual Summit

- August 25, 2024

At the prestigious Eko Hotel,the 2024 Open Life Annual Summit recently provided a platform for crucial discussions on national security and economic growth. Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, Chief of the Naval Staff, was represented by Rear Admiral M.B. Hassan, Flag Officer Commanding the Western Naval Command, who delivered a keynote address on his behalf.

In his address, Rear Admiral Hassan conveyed warm greetings from Vice Admiral Ogalla, who could not attend due to service exigencies. He emphasized the intrinsic link between national security and the well-being of the country, stating, "It is only in a secure environment that socio-economic activities can thrive, thereby engendering economic growth for national development."

The theme of the summit, *“Creating an Enabling Environment for Economic Growth through Strategic Tackling of Insecurity,”* resonated strongly as Rear Admiral Hassan outlined the contemporary security challenges facing Nigeria. He highlighted the multifaceted threats posed by terrorism, banditry, and communal clashes, which have adversely affected the nation’s socio-economic landscape.

In particular, he noted the increasing maritime security challenges, including oil theft, pipeline vandalism, and piracy. These issues, driven by poverty and the proliferation of small arms, have stunted the growth of the oil and gas sector, limiting government revenue.

To combat these challenges, the Nigerian Navy has implemented a *Total Spectrum Maritime Strategy*, focusing on surveillance, response, and law enforcement. Rear Admiral Hassan detailed the Navy's investment in state-of-the-art Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA) facilities, which enable continuous monitoring of the maritime environment. The Navy is also committed to fleet recapitalization to ensure that its personnel are equipped with modern vessels and equipment.

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One of the key initiatives discussed was *Operation Delta Sanity*, launched in January 2024, aimed at eradicating crude oil theft and increasing daily crude oil output. The operation has already yielded significant results, with 35 ships involved in oil theft arrested and numerous illegal refining sites deactivated. Rear Admiral Hassan reported a steady increase in Nigeria's crude oil production, rising from 1.24 million barrels per day to 1.65 million barrels per day by the end of July 2024.

Furthermore, the Nigerian Navy is actively collaborating with local and international stakeholders to enhance maritime security. Recent participation in multinational exercises, such as *Exercise Obangame Express* and *Operation Safe Domain 3*, underscores the Navy's commitment to regional cooperation in addressing maritime crimes.

In conclusion, Rear Admiral Hassan assured legitimate operators and stakeholders that the Nigerian Navy, under Vice Admiral Ogalla's leadership, is dedicated to maintaining safe and secure waters for legitimate economic activities, thereby facilitating national development. He expressed gratitude to the organizers of the summit for their efforts in fostering dialogue around these critical issues.