AFRIDEX: NIMASA Showcase Deep Blue Assets, Conducts Drill

As the Africa International Defence Exhibition (AFRIDEX) continues at the Eko Atlantic City  in Lagos, the Nigerian Maritime Administration and SAfety Agency, NIMASA, has proudly showcased its Deep Blue Assets to reinforce its position as Africa  leading maritime Agency-reiterating Nigeria’s global leadership role.

Apart from its Personnel Armoured Carriers, APCs, Drones, Night Vision, Unmanned Aerial Vehicles, UAVs equipment and other gadgets, the addition of a vertical take-off and landing (VTOL)  amongst other high tech equipment procured by NIMASA  for its Deep Blue operations, regular training and re-training has further boosted the Deep Blue capabilities.

Tal Spektor, who leads the Integrated National Security and Waterways Protection Infrastructure, otherwise known as the Deep Blue project and operated by Homeland Security International (HLSI), the Unit’s head and lead consultant for the project expressed delight at the successes recorded in the areas of security.

He explained that the project’s Command, Control and Communication  Centre, Ci4, enables authorities to monitor vessels travelling from different parts of the world into Nigeria’s waters by providing information on vessels  International Maritime Organization (IMO) identification numbers, Automatic Identification System (AIS) status and other intelligence needed to track maritime movements and identify suspicious activities.

The Deep Blue project is operated under the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy in collaboration with the Ministry of Defence. The project provides comprehensive maritime security through intelligence gathering, surveillance and coordinated enforcement operations.

Spektor attributed recent maritime gains by Nigeria to concerted efforts by the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy and Military collaborations at addressing security issues on Nigeria waters and borders.

According to the HSL Chief,  “Security is everyone’s business and we are working with all stakeholders to ensure maximum security for everyone who carries out legitimate business in Nigeria especially on the waters”.

“Any illegal activity at sea will always start from the land. The importance of strengthening the operational capacity of personnel working under the Deep Blue Project cannot be over emphasized.  It has been proven that many of the criminal activities at sea start from the land and returns to land after their criminalities. Our Land, Air and Sea components are therefore well linked to function effectively.

Spektor said the Deep Blue project scope extends beyond combating piracy, militancy and the trafficking of arms and ammunition.

“We supports efforts to stop  illegal fishing, protect Nigeria’s marine environment, enforce maritime regulations, safeguard government revenue and ensure that dumping of dangerous wastes does not take place on Nigerian waters” Spektor said.

 

Drill

NIMASA conveyed guests and visitors to its stand to the Eko Atlantic sea side for a spectacular thrilling drill.  The Agency deployed ships, Helicopters and its fast interceptor boats to carry out a simulated drill against piracy action at sea.

Former Director General of NIMASA, Barr. Temisan Omatseye, Military Chiefs, Media executives and NIMASA officials who witnessed the drill applauded the Agency for its efforts and commitment in securing Nigeria’s water consistently.