Nigerian Navy said it deployed assets acquired by Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) under the Integrated National Security and Waterways Protection Infrastructure, known as Deep Blue Project, across the South West, Central and Eastern zones, to enhance patrol of the nation’s maritime domain.
    
Acting Fleet Commander, Western Naval Command and Commander Deep Blue Project, Victor Choji, made the declaration in Lagos, yesterday, during a working visit to the management of NIMASA by Flag Officer Commanding (FOC), Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral Mohammed Abdullahi.
    
Choji said the Nigerian Navy is committed to the success of the Deep Blue Project, noting that five armoured vehicles had already been deployed in Port Harcourt, and three in Bonny.
   
Choji said: “In Lagos, just last week, we got a directive that there was a requirement, and we are about to deploy two interceptor boats to support operations that are ongoing in Lagos inland waters. I can state categorically that we have the full backing of the Nigerian Navy for the success of the Deep Blue Project.”
   
On his part, Director General of NIMASA, Dr Bashir Jamoh, restated the agency’s commitment to a robust relationship with the Nigerian Navy for economic development of the country.
    
He said NIMASA and the Nigerian Navy have a lot in common to ensure safety and security in the nation’s waters. 
   
According to him, while the Nigerian Navy takes care of kinetic operations, NIMASA concentrates on non-kinetic operations. He added that the two would have to work hand in hand, if they must succeed.
   
Jamoh further expressed the desire of NIMASA to earn value for funds invested in the project.