The Nigeria Police Force has reiterated that safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime environment requires collective responsibility and coordinated action among security agencies.

This position was highlighted by Okunade Ronke Nurat, Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of the Maritime Command, during a strategic visit to the Western Naval Command.

Strategic Engagement to Deepen Security Cooperation

The visit, which took place at the headquarters of the Western Naval Command, forms part of ongoing efforts to strengthen inter-agency collaboration and improve security across Nigeria’s maritime domain.

During the meeting, AIG Nurat and the Flag Officer Commanding, A. A. Mustapha, reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing coordination through intelligence sharing, joint patrols, and unified operational strategies.

Security experts have long emphasised that Nigeria’s waterways—particularly in coastal and riverine areas—require a multi-agency approach due to the complexity of threats, including piracy, smuggling, and illegal activities.

Emphasis on Synergy Between Security Agencies

Speaking during the engagement, AIG Nurat stressed the importance of sustained cooperation between the Police and the Nigerian Navy.

She acknowledged the Navy’s primary responsibility in protecting Nigeria’s territorial waters, while noting that the Maritime Police Command plays a complementary role in maintaining law and order within inland waterways and coastal communities.

According to her, effective maritime security depends on clear role alignment and operational synergy, especially in areas where jurisdiction overlaps.

Navy Reaffirms Commitment to Joint Operations

In his response, Rear Admiral Mustapha welcomed the delegation and commended the Maritime Police Command for its proactive engagement.

“The Nigerian Navy will continue to partner with the Nigeria Police Force in addressing maritime security challenges,” he said.

He noted that collaboration between both agencies remains essential in tackling evolving threats within Nigeria’s coastal and inland waterways.

Key Areas of Cooperation Identified

Discussions during the meeting focused on practical steps to enhance joint operations. These include:

• Intensifying coordinated patrols across Lagos waterways and adjoining creeks
• Developing a unified response framework for maritime emergencies
• Expanding capacity building initiatives, including joint training exercises

These measures are expected to improve response time, reduce operational gaps, and strengthen overall maritime security architecture.

Broader Context of Maritime Security Challenges

Nigeria’s maritime domain plays a critical role in the country’s economy, particularly through shipping, oil and gas operations, and fisheries. However, the sector continues to face challenges such as piracy, oil theft, and illegal trafficking.

Stakeholders have consistently called for deeper collaboration among security agencies as a way to enhance surveillance, intelligence coordination, and enforcement capabilities.

Conclusion

The meeting between the Maritime Police Command and the Western Naval Command underscores a growing recognition that no single agency can address maritime security challenges alone.

By strengthening collaboration, both institutions aim to ensure improved protection of lives, property, and critical national assets within Nigeria’s waterways.

The visit concluded with a renewed commitment from both sides to sustain cooperation in the collective interest of national security and economic stability.

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has reiterated the Nigerian Army’s determination to address evolving security challenges across the country, emphasizing a renewed focus on strategy, collaboration, and troop morale.

During an operational visit to Yobe State on Friday, April 10, 2026, the army chief conducted a comprehensive battlefield assessment aimed at reviewing ongoing military operations and strengthening responses to insurgency in the North-East. He was received by Governor Mai Mala Buni at the Muhammadu Buhari International Cargo Airport.

Strengthening Military Strategy Amid Evolving Threats

Speaking during the visit, Shaibu acknowledged that security threats in the region have become increasingly complex, with insurgent groups adopting new tactics. He noted that recent attacks on troop positions highlight the need for continuous adaptation and intelligence-driven operations.

According to him, the Nigerian Army is already implementing tactical adjustments designed to improve operational effectiveness and ensure sustained pressure on armed groups. These include enhanced coordination among units, improved surveillance, and a stronger emphasis on rapid response.

“The nature of modern security threats requires flexibility and innovation. Our forces are adjusting accordingly to stay ahead,” he said.

Security analysts note that such high-level battlefield assessments are critical in modern warfare, as they allow military leadership to directly evaluate conditions on the ground and make informed strategic decisions.

Boosting Troop Morale and Operational Effectiveness

A key objective of the visit was to boost the morale of troops operating in challenging environments. Military experts often highlight morale as a decisive factor in counterinsurgency operations, where soldiers face prolonged deployments and unpredictable threats.

At the Headquarters of Sector 2, Joint Task Force North-East, Operation HADIN KAI in Damaturu, the COAS interacted directly with frontline personnel. He commended their resilience and urged them to remain focused and professional in the discharge of their duties.

Shaibu also paid tribute to fallen soldiers, describing their sacrifices as a driving force behind ongoing operations. He encouraged troops to remain steadfast in honour of their colleagues who lost their lives in service to the nation.

Collaboration Between Military and Civil Authorities

The visit also underscored the importance of cooperation between the military and civilian authorities. Governor Babagana Zulum, accompanied by Senator Ali Ndume, paid a condolence visit to the army chief during the engagement, expressing support for the Armed Forces and sympathy over recent losses.

Zulum reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting security agencies, noting that the dynamic nature of threats requires continuous collaboration and innovative approaches.

Similarly, Governor Mai Mala Buni commended the Nigerian Army’s efforts in stabilizing parts of the state and emphasized the importance of sustained partnership between government institutions and security forces.

Experts widely agree that civil-military cooperation plays a crucial role in counterinsurgency efforts, particularly in regions where local intelligence and community trust are essential for success.

Adapting to a Changing Security Landscape

Nigeria’s North-East has faced persistent security challenges over the past decade, with insurgent activities affecting communities, infrastructure, and economic development. While the military has recorded significant successes, the situation continues to evolve.

Shaibu stressed that the Nigerian Army remains committed to adapting its operational approaches to meet these changing realities. He highlighted the role of technology, intelligence sharing, and inter-agency collaboration in strengthening national security efforts.

Observers say such adaptive strategies are essential in addressing asymmetric threats, where non-state actors rely on unconventional tactics.

The Role of Public Support

The COAS also called for continued support from citizens, noting that public cooperation is vital in achieving lasting peace. He emphasized that timely information sharing and community engagement can significantly enhance the effectiveness of military operations.

“Security is a collective responsibility. The support of the people remains critical to our success,” he added.

Looking Ahead

The visit to Yobe State reflects a broader effort by the Nigerian Army to reassess its operations and reinforce its commitment to national security. By combining strategic evaluation, troop engagement, and collaboration with civil authorities, the military aims to build on recent gains while addressing emerging threats.

As Nigeria continues to confront complex security challenges, stakeholders agree that sustained coordination, adaptive strategies, and public support will remain key pillars in the pursuit of long-term peace and stability.

In preparation for the 2026 Easter celebrations, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has announced an unprecedented nationwide deployment of 57,000 personnel to ensure a peaceful and incident-free holiday.
The operation—approved by the Commandant General, Prof. Ahmed Abubakar Audi, mni, OFR—covers all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), reflecting a strategic commitment to national security during high-traffic festive periods.

According to the NSCDC leadership, the large-scale deployment incorporates conventional officers, tactical operatives, intelligence units, and specialized squads—all placed on heightened alert to counter potential threats, safeguard citizens, and protect key national infrastructure.

Nationwide Security Reinforcement and Critical Infrastructure Protection

The Easter security operation is designed as a proactive response to evolving criminal trends and the seasonal movement of people across the country.
Under Prof. Audi’s directive, Zonal Commanders, State Commandants, and Provosts of all NSCDC colleges have been ordered to enforce comprehensive security coverage across their jurisdictions.

Key focus areas include:

• Major highways and interstate travel corridors
• Churches and worship centres
• Markets, malls, and commercial hubs
• Motor parks and mass-transit terminals
• Hotels, event venues, and recreational facilities
• Public squares and tourist areas
• Critical National Assets and Infrastructure (CNAI), including power installations, pipelines, telecom facilities, dams, rail assets, and water supply systems

The NSCDC disclosed that surveillance operations will combine high-visibility patrols with covert intelligence officers stationed across strategic locations to detect, deter, and disrupt any form of criminal activity before escalation.

Commandant General Emphasizes Vigilance, Joint Operations, and Public Cooperation

Speaking ahead of the nationwide deployment, Prof. Audi stressed the importance of sustained vigilance, inter-agency synergy, and rapid information flow as critical components of the Easter security strategy.

He noted that coordination between the NSCDC, Police, DSS, Nigerian Army, FRSC, and other sister agencies remains central to delivering a peaceful holiday.

According to him:

“Our goal is a seamless and secure Easter season. We are working hand-in-hand with sister agencies to maintain order. I also urge parents and guardians to properly guide their children, ensuring they are not manipulated into activities capable of disrupting public peace.”

He further appealed to citizens to remain alert, report suspicious activities promptly, and cooperate fully with security personnel deployed across the country.

Specialized Tactical Units Placed on Maximum Alert

Several of the Corps’ elite units have been activated and placed on stand-by for rapid deployment where necessary. These include:

1. CG’s Special Intelligence Squad (CG-SIS)

A covert intelligence arm trained for discreet operations, deep surveillance, and rapid interception of high-risk threats.

2. Mining Marshals

A specialized team assigned to curb illegal mining activities, protect solid mineral assets, and prevent resource-driven conflict escalation during the festive season.

3. Special Female Squad (SFS)

A trained female tactical team responsible for crowd control, anti-kidnapping operations, and sensitive security interventions requiring gender balance.

4. Crack Squad

The NSCDC’s high-impact response unit equipped to handle violent crimes, organized criminal groups, riots, and threats against national critical infrastructure.

All teams have been instructed to maintain maximum readiness and respond decisively to any attempted disruption of public safety during the Easter holidays.

Public Participation Remains Key to Successful Security Operations

While the NSCDC has deployed massive personnel and resources, the Commandant General emphasized that public vigilance remains a crucial element in maintaining security.
Citizens are urged to:

• Report unusual or suspicious behaviour
• Avoid spreading unverified information that may cause panic
• Comply with directives from security personnel
• Keep emergency numbers handy
• Prioritize the safety of children and vulnerable persons

He reminded the public that security is a shared responsibility and cooperation enhances the success of national operations.

SIGNED:

AFOLABI BABAWALE, Anipr
Assistant Commandant of Corps
National Public Relations Officer
Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps