By Joshua Yousouph
The Nigeria Police Force, Maritime Police Command and the Nigerian Navy, Western Naval Command have stepped up efforts to strengthen maritime security with a renewed focus on joint patrols, emergency response coordination, and capacity building across Lagos waterways.
This formed the crux of deliberations during a strategic meeting between the Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of the Maritime Police Command, Okunade Ronke Nurat, and the Flag Officer Commanding, Western Naval Command, A. A. Mustapha.
According to an official statement signed by the Spokesman of the Maritime Police, ASP Adebayo Rasheed indicate that both Commands are prioritising the intensification of coordinated patrol operations across Lagos waterways and adjoining creeks as part of efforts to curb criminal activities and enhance surveillance within the maritime corridor.
In addition, the agencies are working towards establishing a unified response framework for maritime emergencies, a move expected to improve reaction time and operational efficiency in addressing incidents such as boat mishaps, piracy threats, and other security breaches.
The meeting also underscored the importance of capacity building through joint training exercises, aimed at enhancing the operational readiness and interoperability of personnel from both Commands.
Speaking during the engagement, AIG Okunade stressed that sustained collaboration remains critical to securing Nigeria’s maritime environment, noting that intelligence sharing and joint operations would significantly boost outcomes.
Responding, Rear Admiral Mustapha reaffirmed the Nigerian Navy’s commitment to the partnership, describing inter-agency synergy as essential to tackling evolving maritime threats.
The renewed collaboration is expected to bolster security presence across Lagos waterways while ensuring better protection of lives, property, and critical maritime assets.
