The Nigerian Navy commenced the 2026 iteration of Exercise Obangame Express on Sunday, a collaborative maritime security operation involving nations across West and Central Africa.
This significant exercise, held under the guidance of the United States, was officially launched at the Naval Jetty, Federal Ocean Terminal, Onne, Rivers State. Rear Admiral Patrick Effah, representing the Chief of Naval Staff Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, presided over the inauguration.
Vice Admiral Abbas highlighted that Obangame Express is an annual multinational undertaking designed to enhance the coordination of maritime security strategies within the Gulf of Guinea. The operation's objectives include fortifying regional security, improving the exchange of intelligence, advancing tactical capabilities, and actively countering maritime threats such as piracy, sea robbery, trafficking, oil theft, and other illicit maritime activities.
He further noted Nigeria's substantial contribution to the exercise, deploying 10 naval ships, two helicopters, and a fleet of specialized boats. This highlights Nigeria's leading role as the largest navy in the region.
Abbas also confirmed the participation of naval vessels from Spain, Denmark, France, the United States, and other allied nations, conducting joint exercises in the Gulf. These operations are specifically designed to foster a conducive business environment within the region.
The exercise is expected to deepen diplomatic relations and naval collaboration among the participating countries, ultimately contributing to a secure maritime environment essential for economic prosperity in the Gulf of Guinea.
According to the naval chief, prior editions of this exercise have yielded considerable successes, including Nigeria's successful removal from the list of countries deemed high-risk for piracy in 2022.
He urged all participating officers and personnel to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, discipline, and commitment throughout the duration of the exercise.
Abbas expressed his gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for his continuous support for the armed forces and the Nigerian Navy. He also extended commendations to the Flag Officers Commanding the Eastern and Central Naval Commands, alongside the commanders and personnel of all participating units, for their vital contributions to the exercise.
"The successful execution of an exercise of this magnitude is fundamentally dependent on meticulous planning, robust logistical support, and an unwavering dedication to our objectives," the Chief of Naval Staff stated.
He added, "I wish to convey my profound appreciation to the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Bola Tinubu, for his steadfast support to the armed forces and, by extension, the Nigerian Navy."
Rear Admiral Chiedozie Okehie, the Flag Officer Commanding the Eastern Naval Command, elaborated on the exercise's purpose, emphasizing its role in strengthening regional cooperation and improving maritime situational awareness.
He explained, "It serves as a crucial platform for promoting the sharing of information, enhancing collaboration, and building operational efficiency to confront a broad spectrum of maritime challenges. These include piracy, sea robbery, illegal fishing, crude oil theft, smuggling, and other forms of transnational organized crime prevalent within the Gulf of Guinea."
Okehie further commented on the exercise's timeliness, noting that it occurs at a period when the Gulf of Guinea is receiving increased international focus due to its critical importance for energy security, global trade, and regional stability.
"For Nigeria, our maritime domain remains intrinsically linked to national security and presents a timely opportunity to reinforce our ongoing efforts to safeguard critical infrastructure and combat crude oil theft and other maritime offenses," he concluded.
Speaking to reporters following the event, Rear Admiral Effah issued a stern warning to criminal elements operating in the maritime space, asserting that the naval personnel involved in the exercise are fully equipped and prepared to respond decisively to any illegal activities at sea.
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