Nigerian Navy mobilizes stakeholders to secure Lagos waterways

The Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) BEECROFT has convened a meeting with security agencies, maritime operators, and Apapa local government representatives to strengthen efforts against drug trafficking, human smuggling, and illegal migration. Commodore Aiwuyor Adams-Aliu, Commander of NNS BEECROFT, emphasized that the initiative aims to improve intelligence sharing and coordinate security operations to protect legitimate commercial activities from criminal networks.

The meeting addresses security concerns within the Lagos maritime corridor, particularly ahead of the 2027 general elections and the festive season. NNS BEECROFT is responsible for policing approximately 154 nautical miles of coastline, covering parts of Lagos, Ogun, and Ondo states, with a maritime area of responsibility extending significantly when including the exclusive economic zone.

Recent enforcement actions by NNS BEECROFT include the seizure of 23 bags of illicit drugs since February 2026 and the rescue of 25 stowaways from commercial vessels between March and September. The recovered substances were transferred to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), while the rescued individuals were handed over to the Nigerian Immigration Service.