The Nigerian Navy’s contraband rice seizure operation in Badagry on May 14, 2023 is a testimony to the authorities’ commitment to combating illegal activities and ensuring security and economic stability in the region.
The Base Officer, Lt Cdr Bitus Zoaka, highlighted that the base patrol team intercepted vehicles loaded with large quantities of foreign rice in Aradagun, Badagry. This initiative, aimed at stemming illegal imports from Benin, is part of a broader mission aimed at securing the territorial waters of Nigeria and the Gulf of Guinea.
Despite the suspects fleeing when the patrol team approached, collaboration with customs authorities enabled the delivery of the seized rice to the Seme Area Command. This coordination between the Navy and Customs strengthens anti-smuggling efforts and strengthens cooperation between different government agencies.
Operation Water Guard, launched by the Commander of the Western Navy, Rear Admiral Mustapha Hala Hassan, is part of a comprehensive strategy aimed at ensuring security and economic stability in the region. By complying with the strategic directives of the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, the Navy Base Badagry demonstrates strong commitment towards the accomplishment of the constitutional missions of the Navy.
The receipt of the seized rice by Deputy Comptroller I D Musa, on behalf of the Area Controller of Customs, not only strengthens the ties between the different agencies but also sends a strong message to the smugglers: there is no more room for their illegal activities.
This operation to seize contraband rice demonstrates the authorities’ determination to ensure the security of Nigeria’s territorial waters, combat illegal activities and promote economic stability in the region. This is a significant step towards achieving these essential objectives for the development and prosperity of the country.