Nigerian Navy has significantly increased security measures in fishing settlements near Cameroon, including Parrot Island, Ibaka, Qua, Ikang, Qua field, and Dayspring, as well as the various creeks and coastlines where economic activities are carried out daily.
Previously, these areas were plagued by armed gangs like sea robbers and kidnappers who frequently targeted fishermen.
Commander Rotimi Oderemi of Nigerian Navy Ship Victory mentioned in an interview that they have successfully deployed their forces to conduct continuous patrols and surveillance in these waters.
As a result, Oderemi noted that the Navy has earned the trust and support of local fishermen, seafarers, and coastal residents, who now feel more secure in their daily activities.
“Our consistent presence in the creeks, fishing settlements, and islands along the Calabar waterways up to Ibaka coastal communities in Akwa Ibom State has significantly reassured the coastal communities and fishermen,” Oderemi stated.
Through effective collaboration with other security agencies and leveraging joint task force assets of Operation Sanity, the Navy has successfully reduced incidents of piracy, smuggling, kidnapping, and oil theft that were rampant in the region.
“We also engage in cooperative efforts with maritime agencies from neighboring countries like Cameroon and Sao Tome and Principe in the Bakassi axis, extending our operations up to the exclusive economic zones of 200 nautical miles,” he added.
The commander of NNS Victory revealed that their team has intercepted several vessels involved in maritime illegal activities within the Calabar Channel and creeks.
To sustain and enhance their operations, he emphasized the need for improved Naval platforms due to the extensive coastline and numerous creeks in the area.
“We require enhanced platforms, preferably with flat bottoms, to navigate the backwaters more effectively. Adequate logistics support is essential to bolster our operational capabilities,” he emphasized.