The synergy among security agencies have yielded fruitful results as the Nigeria Navy have intercepted no fewer than 419 bags of smuggled foreign parboiled rice. The interception of the contraband marks a significant stride against smuggling activities along Nigeria’s coastal and border regions.
The Nigerian Navy, Forward Operating Base (FOB) Badagry, Lagos State which carried out the operation has subsequently handed over the smuggled foreign parboiled rice to the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Seme Area Command.
Maritime Bits checks revealed that the seizure was the result of intensified patrols and surveillance operations carried out by the Navy’s Quick Response Teams along the Badagry Porto Novo Creek and surrounding backwaters. The operation targeted suspected smuggling routes used by economic saboteurs attempting to bypass regulatory controls.
Speaking during the official handover ceremony, the Commanding Officer of FOB Badagry, Navy Captain BO Omotayo, represented by the Base Administration Officer, Lieutenant Commander SO Talabi, reiterated the Navy’s unwavering commitment to maritime security and the enforcement of federal trade and economic protection policies.
“Our actions are in strict alignment with the Chief of the Naval Staff’s strategic directive 06–2023 which emphasizes the need for a secured maritime environment as a foundation for national development,” Omotayo stated.
He also praised the dedication and resilience of his personnel, noting that their professional conduct continues to ensure that smugglers and other cross-border criminal elements are effectively denied operational space.
“The Nigerian Navy, particularly FOB Badagry, will continue to conduct intelligence-led operations and strengthen collaboration with sister agencies and local communities to ensure sustained pressure on those who seek to undermine Nigeria’s economic stability,” he added.
Omotayo warned individuals engaged in smuggling and other illegal maritime activities to desist immediately, affirming that the Navy remains resolute in protecting the nation’s territorial waters and economic lifelines.
The handover was conducted in accordance with the Harmonized Standard Operating Procedure (HSOP) for inter-agency cooperation, reinforcing ongoing efforts to combat smuggling through shared intelligence and coordinated enforcement strategies.
