Navy begins Operation Ex Toru- Gbown in Niger Delta
The Central Naval Command of the Nigerian Navy on Wednesday, commenced its annual sea and riverine operation, nick named Exercise Toru Gbown aimed at assessing the combat readiness of the specific bases/units under the command in the riverine areas.
Speaking at the inauguration on Wednesday, the Flag Officer Commanding of the command, Rear Admiral Saidu Garba, said the exercise was Nigeria Navy’s commitment to safeguard the nation’s maritime environment which for some time had been ridden with illegalities.
Garba, who marked the commencement of the exercise at the Nigeria Port Authority Jetty in Warri, Delta State, said that the exercise was expected to last from November 28 to Nov. 30.
The FOC noted the aim of the exercise was also to assess the operational readiness of CNC fleet and to test the practical skills of its personnel in tackling maritime threats.
He said, “The exercise scenario is predicated on contemporary maritime threats within the command’s area of responsibility, which are predominantly crude oil theft, piracy/sea robbery, hijacking, illegal refining of stolen crude and pipeline vandalism.”
The FOC further stated that the Command was tasked with the responsibility of securing the waterways by providing adequate security within the command’s area of responsibility.
(PUNCH)
