On Tuesday, October 15, 2024, the 243 Recce Battalion of the Nigerian Army was officially inducted into the Joint Task Force South West (JTF SW) OP AWATSE. The induction ceremony, which took place at the 243 Recce Battalion Parade Ground in Ibereko, Badagry, also marked the launch of Operation WATERGUARD II. The event was presided over by Rear Admiral MB Hassan, Flag Officer Commanding (FOC) Western Naval Command and Task Force Commander of JTF SW OP AWATSE.
In his remarks, Rear Admiral Hassan emphasized that the inclusion of the 243 Recce Battalion would significantly boost the operational capability of the JTF in addressing the challenges of smuggling and other illegal activities in the Badagry region. He pointed out that the battalion’s expertise in land operations would complement the task force’s existing efforts in securing the maritime and littoral areas along the Badagry axis.
“The addition of the Nigerian Army, particularly the 243 Recce Battalion, into OP AWATSE will enhance our ability to effectively counter smuggling and other related crimes. Operation WATERGUARD II is designed to further strengthen joint operations in this area and ensure that criminal activities are significantly curtailed,” Rear Admiral Hassan stated.
The event was attended by key military and security personnel, including Brigadier General Agbi, Chief of Staff, 81 Division Nigerian Army, who represented the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 81 Division; Commander NNS BEECROFT, Commodore RT Oladejo; Chief of Operations Western Naval Command, Commodore AO Ojebode; Commander Nigerian Army Barracks (NAB), Commodore SO Ega; as well as representatives from the Department of State Services (DSS), Nigerian Police Force (NPF), Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) Badagry Division.
The induction of the 243 Recce Battalion and the launch of Operation WATERGUARD II highlight the ongoing commitment of the Nigerian military and security agencies to safeguarding the nation’s territorial integrity, especially in regions prone to illicit activities such as smuggling.