Nigerian, French navies conclude joint maritime exercise

By onepageafrica Last updated Nov 25, 2024

Officers at the launch of the Crocodile Lift

The Nigerian Navy, in collaboration with the French Navy Special Forces and the French Army Amphibious Detachment, has concluded a major naval maneuver aimed at combating maritime crimes, including crude oil theft and piracy.

The joint exercise codenamed Crocodile Lift 2024, took place in Lagos and featured a variety of tactical operations designed to bolster Nigeria’s maritime security.

Rear Admiral Shehu Gombe, the Flag Officer Commanding (FOC) Naval Doctrine Command, described the exercise as a simulation of amphibious operations held at Tarkwa Bay, Lagos.

According to him, the training scenario involved a simulated hostage rescue operation, with troops successfully recovering hostages, conducting medical evacuations, and executing amphibious landings.

“We had the French Navy assets, both vehicles and their Special Boat Service (SBS) Army, alongside Nigerian Navy ships, SBS, and helicopters participating in the exercise,” Rear Admiral Gombe said. He praised the operation’s success, emphasizing its importance in keeping troops prepared for real-life situations.

The Nigerian Navy has announced plans to expand the scope of the exercise in 2025, with full participation from the Nigerian Army and Nigerian Air Force (NAF). Observers from the Army, including the amphibious battalion commander and the commanding officer of the 65 Amphibious Boat Battalion, were present at the 2024 event.

“This partnership enhances our readiness to address security threats within Nigeria’s Exclusive Economic Zone. In the next edition, we aim for a joint exercise incorporating all relevant forces,” Gombe added.

The simulation also addressed broader security concerns, including raids on criminal hideouts, troop insertions, and suspect arrests, which maritime stakeholders say have significant implications for marine workers and the economy.

The Crocodile Lift exercise underscores the commitment of the Nigerian Navy and its international partners to ensuring maritime safety and combating illicit activities along Nigeria’s waterways.

Credit: The Sun Newspaper

Nigerian Navy Operation Crocodile Lift