Nigeria and France’s Naval forces have wrapped up a comprehensive naval maneuver in Lagos aimed at combating maritime crimes such as crude oil theft and piracy with in the Gulf of Guinea.
The joint simulation exercise, code named Crocodile Lift 2024, was conducted in partnership with the French Navy Special Forces and the French Army Amphibious Detachment.
Held at Tarkwa Bay in Lagos State, the exercise simulated a hostage rescue operation, complete with tactical elements such as raids on criminal hideouts, assault missions, troop insertions, arrests, and medical evacuations. Maritime stakeholders have lauded the effort, citing its positive impact on maritime safety and economic activities.
Rear Admiral Shehu Gombe, Flag Officer Commanding (FOC) Naval Doctrine Command, highlighted the success of the operation. “We had the French Navy assets, including vehicles and their Special Boat Service (SBS) Army, alongside Nigerian Navy ships, SBS, and helicopters participating in the exercise,” he said.
He added, “The scenario was well-executed; we successfully recovered the hostages, conducted medical evacuations, and completed amphibious landings. It was a highly successful operation.”
The exercise also had observers from the Nigerian Army and the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), with plans to integrate these forces fully in future simulations. “In 2025, we intend to incorporate the amphibious battalion, the Army, and the NAF for a more comprehensive and joint operation,” Rear Admiral Gombe said.
The Navy emphasized the importance of such simulations in maintaining combat readiness. “Exercises like this ensure our troops remain sharp and ready to deploy their training in real-world scenarios,” Gombe added.
Crocodile Lift 2024 underscores the Nigerian Navy’s commitment to securing the nation’s maritime environment and strengthening its capacity to counter criminal activities within its Exclusive Economic Zone.
