Navy to begin operation Octopusgrip in Niger Delta

The Flag Officer Commanding Central Naval Command, Rear Adm. Bello Al-Hassan, said the Navy had deployed seven ships and 37 patrol boats for maritime security drill in the Niger Delta.

Al-Hassan told the News Agency of Nigeria at the Federal Ocean Terminal, Onne, that the command had commenced a sea/backwater exercise code named: ‘Octopusgrip’ in Onne, Rivers.

He said the exercise would give the participating ships and crew a great opportunity to showcase their professional capacity in securing the maritime environment within the Command’s Area of Responsibility. According to him, the sea-based operation is to enhance the combat readiness of the troops which commenced on Monday and would last for three days.

The FOC said the objective of the exercise was to consolidate on the gains of “Operation Rivers Sweep” that was launched in January.

He said the earlier operation had reduced crude oil theft and other maritime illegalities, which caused a high degree of insecurity of lives and property in the Niger Delta region.

UCJ, UNILORIN.