The Nigerian Navy has said, it is set to enhance maritime security by taking part in the annual ‘Exercise Obangame Express 2024’ aimed at fostering regional cooperation amongst navies in Africa, North America among others.
Flag Officer Commanding Central Naval Command, Rear Admiral Samson Bura, disclosed this in Port Harcourt yesterday, stating that the excercise would strengthen its maritime search and improve services of the navy in the waterways.
According to Bura, the exercise involves import trainning at sea scenarios such as anti-piracy operations, gunnery exercise, communication and information sharing amongst others.
The flag Officer explained that the exercise is an annual multinational activity initiated by the United States African Command under the auspices of the United States Naval Forces Africa held in the Golf of Guinea region.
He disclosed that the exercise will involve international and local partners including one Spanish warship, other participants expected are; the Federal Ministry of Justice, Nigeria Maritime Safety and Administration Agency, NIMASA amongst others.
According to Bura, “Exercise Obangame Express 2024 aims to promote regional cooperation, improves maritime security and enhance capacity of participating navies .
“The exercise involves inport trainning, at sea scenarios such as anti-piracy operations, gunnery exercise, communication and information sharing amongst others.
“This year’s exercise is schedule for 10th-17th May, 2024 and will feature Nigeria and other countries of Africa and North America participating simultaneously with the republic of Gabon as the host country,” Bura said.
Rear Admiral Bura stated further that the Nigerian segment of Exercise Obangame Express 2024 will be flagged-off Friday morning onboard Nigeria Navy Ship KADA at Onne Port.
“On her part, Nigerian Navy will deploy ships, aircrafts, special boats service elements and maritime domain awareness facilities.
“The Nigeria Navy is committed to ensuring the success of the exercise and advancing regional maritime security objectives,” Bura said.
