As the Nigerian Navy (NN) intensifies operations to curb cross-border fuel smuggling, it has intercepted over 6,000 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) during a targeted operation along the Badagry-Ajara axis in Lagos State.

According to the Navy, the product was recovered during the operation conducted by personnel of Forward Operating Base (FOB) Badagry, following intelligence reports on the activities of smugglers operating within the area.

The Service Spokesman, Navy Capt. Abiodun Folorunsho, said the mission formed part of ongoing efforts to disrupt illegal fuel trafficking routes and restrict the movement of petroleum products through unauthorised border corridors.

He said the personnel discovered about 240 jerry cans of 25 litres each of PMS concealed and prepared for illegal movement through the Badagry border waterways, adding that the products were subsequently recovered and evacuated to FOB Badagry for further necessary action in accordance with established procedures.

Meanwhile, the Hydrographer of the Federation/Chief Executive Officer of the National Hydrography Agency, Rear Admiral Olumide Fadahunsi, said he had reviewed the operational activities of the National Hydrographic Agency and developed a strategic plan centred on manpower development as a critical enabler for the safety of navigation and the advancement of Nigeria’s blue economy.

Fadahunsi stated this during a visit to the Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Idi Abbas.

He noted that naval personnel constitute a significant percentage of the agency’s workforce, reflecting the strong institutional relationship between the agency and the Service, saying that the agency intends to increase female participation in hydrography, in line with the International Hydrographic Organisation’s goal of broader participation by women in hydrography.

Responding, the CNS assured the Hydrographer of the Federation of continued support in manpower and capacity development, noting that a professionally trained hydrographic workforce remains central to Nigerian Navy operations.

MEANWHILE, the Oba of Lagos, Oba Rilwanu Akiolu, has commended the Navy for its commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s territorial waters and ensuring maritime safety.

He reaffirmed his support for the Navy’s initiatives to strengthen security and foster unity within the maritime environment.

The monarch gave the commendation yesterday when the Commander of Nigerian Navy Ship BEECROFT, Commodore Aiwuyor Adams-Aliu, paid him a courtesy visit at his palace in Isale-Eko ahead of the forthcoming 70th anniversary celebration of the Nigerian Navy.

During the visit, Adams-Aliu formally invited the revered traditional ruler to participate in the landmark anniversary celebrations and sought his royal support for the events.