The ongoing Exercise EJA EXPRESSION initiated by the Nigerian Navy has demonstrated significant effectiveness, leading to the interception and capture of suspected maritime offenders.
The Nigerian Navy Ship EKULU, patrolling the Badagary axis of Lagos, intercepted and investigated two suspicious fishing trawlers, TAURARO and STARSHRIMPER 29, in the early hours of Tuesday, November 28, 2023.
Upon boarding the vessels, it was discovered that despite possessing licenses for shrimping activities, these trawlers carried substantial quantities of fish, contravening their licensing restrictions. The interception comes as part of the efforts to curb economic crimes, specifically illegal fishing, in Nigeria’s maritime waters.
Rear Admiral Mustapha Bala Hassan, Flag Officer Commanding Western Naval Command, had recently inaugurated Exercise EJA EXPRESSION. This exercise aims to enhance personnel skills in combating economic crimes, particularly the issue of illegal fishing, by reinforcing procedures to enforce fisheries laws within Nigeria’s maritime domain.
IUU (Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated) fishing poses a global threat to ocean ecosystems and sustainable fishing practices.
Furthermore, it jeopardizes economic security and strains critical natural resources essential for global food security, thereby endangering legitimate businesses.
Rear Admiral Hassan reiterated the Nigerian Navy’s zero-tolerance stance towards maritime illegalities, emphasizing the commitment to pursuing and prosecuting offenders. He urged perpetrators to desist from such activities, assuring that the Navy remains vigilant and will take swift action against those violating maritime laws.
The Chief of the Naval Staff’s Strategic Directive underscores the importance of effective ocean and maritime governance to foster a thriving Blue Economy.
The Navy’s operations aim to secure Nigeria’s maritime environment, ensuring sustainable utilization of marine resources while deterring illegal activities detrimental to the nation’s economic and ecological interests.
Commander Patricia Ochei, Command Information Officer of the Western Naval Command, highlighted the Navy’s dedication to safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime territories, reinforcing the message that illegal activities will be met with robust actions and legal consequences.
The interception of these fishing vessels exemplifies the Nigerian Navy’s commitment to upholding maritime laws, curbing illegal fishing, and promoting a sustainable and secure maritime environment for the nation’s prosperity.