Navy Bolsters Sea Defenses: 1,814 New Recruits Join the Fight Against Piracy

By Achimi Muktar

The Nigerian Navy is stepping up its game against maritime crime and economic sabotage. In a bold move to fortify the nation’s sea borders, 1,814 young Nigerians have been recruited and trained over the past six months to join the fight against sea piracy, oil theft, and insurgency.

This significant milestone was unveiled during the passing-out parade for Batch 36 trainees at the Nigerian Navy Basic Training School (NNBTS) in Onne, Rivers State. The event showcased the Navy’s commitment to tackling maritime threats head-on, with a sharp focus on bolstering the nation’s economic security.

Speaking at the ceremony, the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, emphasized the critical role of the new recruits in revitalizing naval operations.

“The recruitment of 1,814 ratings became necessary to secure our maritime environment, ensuring national economic prosperity,” he stated.

Ogalla highlighted that the new sailors would be deployed across naval warships and strategic operations zones, including the North-East, the Niger Delta, and the Gulf of Guinea. These areas remain hotspots for insurgency, oil theft, and maritime crimes that have long plagued Nigeria’s waterways.

Strengthening Nigeria’s Maritime Backbone

The Nigerian Navy has been undergoing a transformative phase aimed at modernizing its fleet and operations. Ogalla noted that these efforts align with the Navy’s broader mission to maintain a well-trained and capable force.

“NNBTS has upheld its mandate to transform qualified civilians into skilled and competent ratings for the Nigerian Navy. They are joining the Navy at a time when unprecedented efforts are being made to revitalize our fleet, rejig operations, and upgrade our training facilities,” he added.

To ensure operational excellence, the new ratings received rigorous training in combat fitness, weapons handling, boat drills, and both kinetic and non-kinetic operational tactics. This holistic approach to training, Ogalla explained, is part of the Navy’s capacity-building program designed to address emerging threats and safeguard national interests.

Beyond the Seas

Ogalla revealed that the Navy’s contributions extend beyond maritime operations, with personnel actively engaged in land-based joint military activities across the country’s six geopolitical zones. The synergy with other security agencies underscores the Navy’s pivotal role in national defense.

Call to Duty

As they embark on their careers, the recruits were reminded of the weight of their responsibilities. Ogalla urged them to uphold discipline, loyalty, and professionalism while maintaining an apolitical stance.

“This induction forms a key element of our capacity-building program. Your loyalty to the military and the commander-in-chief of the Armed Forces must remain unwavering,” he charged the recruits.

With these new additions, the Nigerian Navy is poised to take on maritime crime with renewed vigor, securing the nation’s waterways and protecting its economic lifelines.