The Nigerian Navy has reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding the nation’s maritime domain and strengthening security through enhanced collaboration with relevant agencies.
The Flag Officer Commanding (FOC), Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral Abubakar Mustapha, made this known during a visit by the President of the Naval Officers’ Wives Association (NOWA), Aisha Idi Abbas, to the command in Lagos.
Mustapha said the Navy has continued to make significant contributions in line with constitutional mandates and the strategic vision of the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas.
He explained that the command has adopted an operational doctrine focused on detecting, deterring, disrupting and denying criminal activities within the maritime environment, particularly across Lagos waterways and adjoining creeks.
According to him, the deployment of smaller vessels in lagoon areas around Badagry and the Ondo–Epe axis has helped block smuggling routes and eliminate operational blind spots.
He added that the command has also leveraged advanced maritime surveillance systems, including Falcon Eye and other regional maritime awareness platforms, to enhance intelligence-driven operations.
“At the community level, we discovered that most crimes originate from within local communities. As a result, we have intensified engagement with community leaders and traditional institutions, alongside conducting medical outreach programmes to build trust and offer alternative livelihoods,” he said.
The FOC emphasised that NOWA plays a critical role in operational success, describing the association as a stabilising force for naval personnel.
He noted that the sacrifices of naval families, especially during long deployments, significantly contribute to effectiveness at sea.
“An unstable home front would not translate to effectiveness at sea. NOWA has continued to play a vital role in welfare, bridging gaps in education, healthcare and empowerment programmes,” he said.
Mustapha also highlighted vocational initiatives such as tailoring and culinary training for spouses of personnel, which he said have improved economic stability among naval families.
He described the visit of the NOWA President as a demonstration of commitment to strengthening collaboration and assured continued support for the association’s programmes.
Earlier, the NOWA President, Aisha Idi Abbas, commended the FOC for his leadership and support, calling for sustained collaboration to enhance the welfare of naval families.
She said the visit was aimed at appreciating the command’s support and consolidating the existing relationship between NOWA and the Navy.
“Our visit is to appreciate your support to NOWA as well as to consolidate on the existing cordial relationship. Your care and passion for humanity are evident in the various ways you have supported the association,” she said.
She also acknowledged the sacrifices of naval personnel and reaffirmed the association’s commitment to supporting their families through welfare and empowerment initiatives.
“Our association remains resolute in supporting the families of our personnel, recognising the important role they play in sustaining unity and resilience within the naval community,” she added.
The NOWA President later performed a groundbreaking ceremony for the Western Naval Command Boat Club and Officers’ Mess, noting that the association would continue to rely on the support of naval leadership to achieve its objectives.
The visit featured the signing of the visitors’ book and concluded with renewed calls for unity and cooperation within the naval community.
