The Nigerian Navy Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Badagry, Lagos, handed over 250 bags of smuggled foreign rice to the Western Marine Command of the Nigeria Customs Service on Tuesday.
The seizure was the result of targeted, intelligence-led operations carried out by personnel of the base over the past few weeks, according to Navy Captain Leye Omotayo, Commanding Officer of FOB Badagry, who was represented at the handover by Lt. Cdr. Hassan Modu.
Strengthening Maritime Security and Anti-Smuggling Efforts
Captain Omotayo explained that the operation aligns with the Nigerian Navy’s mandate to support civil authorities in combating smuggling and cross-border economic crimes. He said:
“Since assuming office, the Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), Idi Abbas, has consistently emphasised a vision of building a modern, agile, and professional naval force dedicated to safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime interests. It is also advancing national security in collaboration with other security agencies.”
Operational Focus of NN FOB Badagry
The commanding officer noted that the sustained operational efforts of the Nigerian Navy FOB Badagry focus on:
- Securing Nigeria’s maritime and border areas
- Curbing economic sabotage
- Strengthening inter-agency cooperation to ensure a safe and secure nation
The handover of the seized rice underscores the Navy’s commitment to supporting Customs and other civil agencies in protecting the nation’s economic interests and combating illicit trade.
Key Highlights
- 250 bags of smuggled foreign rice seized and handed over to NCS
- Operation conducted through intelligence-led maritime enforcement
- Reinforces Navy–Customs collaboration in Badagry and surrounding areas
- Part of broader effort to combat smuggling and cross-border economic crimes
- Supports the Chief of Naval Staff’s vision for a modern, agile, and professional naval force
This operation highlights the Nigerian Navy’s proactive role in maritime security and economic crime prevention, ensuring safer trade and protecting national revenue.
