In a bid to tackle maritime threats and boost foreign trade in the West Africa sub-region, the Nigerian Navy and its French counterpart have flagged off a joint sea exercise.
The operation, tagged Exercise Crocodile Lift and Grand African NEMO 2023, is taking place in the Gulf of Guinea.
The primary objective of this exercise is to eliminate all maritime threats in the Gulf of Guinea and stimulate foreign trade within the West African sub-region.
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The joint operation, referred to as ‘Crocodile Lift and Grand African NEMO’, has become an annual event aimed at bolstering maritime security in the Gulf of Guinea. This year marks the fifth iteration of Exercise Grand African NEMO in the region.
In a separate incident, the Navy intercepted cannabis worth N200m on Lagos waters.
Exercise Crocodile Lift, an amphibious sea operation, is now in its second series.
The operation is named after the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) KADA, which translates to ‘Crocodile’. This year’s operation has been specifically designed to foster a favorable environment for trade.
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For this exercise, the Nigerian Navy will deploy five warships and two helicopters, while the French Navy will contribute one of its premier warships.
The joint exercise is part of ongoing efforts to enhance maritime security in the region.
The operation aims to ward off all maritime threats in the Gulf of Guinea, thereby ensuring safer waters for foreign trade.