Nigeria has been advised to integrate canine operations into the maritime sector to safeguard ports, vessels and coastal areas against terrorism, smuggling and piracy threats.

The Team Leader for the Anti-Piracy Assistance Security Service (APASS), Anti-Piracy Unit of Trident Group America, Inc., Captain Alfred Oniye, made the recommendation in his paper titled ‘The Use of Dogs in Maritime Security: A Comprehensive Analysis’.

Oniye, who also serves as the Dean of the Faculty at City University, Cambodia, explained that maritime security is a complex, multifaceted domain, highlighting the indispensable role of canine units in ensuring maritime safety.

Oniye explained that dogs offer unmatched detection and protection capabilities, emphasising their use in detecting explosives, narcotics and contraband as well as their roles in patrol, search and rescue operations, underscoring their importance in safeguarding maritime environments.

Tracing the origins of canine units in maritime security, Oniye highlighted the pioneering use of dogs by the United States Coast Guard during World War II for beach patrols and detecting enemy infiltrations.

He noted that their contributions have even expanded to include detection, patrol and rescue operations in high-stake maritime environments, adapting to emerging threats and technological advancements.

Oniye cited the U.S. Coast Guard’s Canine Explosive Detection Programme, initiated after the September 11 attacks, as a key factor in enhancing maritime homeland security.

He said this programme, which involves screening vessels, cargo and passengers, has been instrumental in ensuring the safety of maritime operations.

The security expert also pointed out that several European ports, including the Port of Rotterdam, have integrated canine units into their security protocols.

He said these dogs are used to detect explosives, contraband and narcotics, contributing to the port’s reputation as one of the safest in the world.

Oniye identified several critical areas where dogs excel in maritime security, including their unparalleled sense of smell that allows them to identify trace amounts of dangerous substances, ensuring safer cargo, luggage, vessel and passenger screenings.

He also noted that the canine units are deployed to patrol port facilities, ferry terminals and coastal areas, adding that their presence helps deter potential threats and criminal activities as well as enhances overall security.

In addition, Oniye emphasised the role of dogs in detecting contraband, such as illegal wildlife products, weapons and counterfeit goods, particularly important in combating smuggling and ensuring compliance with international regulations.

He also highlighted the importance of canine teams in finding survivors of maritime accidents and natural disasters, providing critical support to rescue teams in often challenging conditions.

While acknowledging the effectiveness of canine units, Oniye also noted several challenges, including the high cost of training and maintenance, the need for continuous skill refinement, and the physical and emotional well-being of the dogs in demanding environments.

Looking ahead, Oniye envisions advancements in training techniques and technology, such as remote monitoring and biometric tracking, to further enhance the capabilities of canine units.

He advocates for increased international cooperation and the standardisation of training protocols to maximise their effectiveness and improve the deployment of dogs in maritime security.