The Flag Officer Commanding Western Naval Command, Rear Adm. Abubakar Abdullahi Mustapha, says the Nigerian Navy will intensify maritime security operations using its “detect, deter, disrupt and deny” strategy to combat smuggling and other crimes on the nation’s waterways.
Mustapha spoke in Lagos during a familiarization visit and the groundbreaking ceremony of the Nigerian Navy Officers’ Mess and Boat Club by the National President of the Naval Officers’ Wives Association (NOWA), Aisha Idi Abbas.
He said the command has strengthened patrols across Lagos creeks, the Badagry waterways, and adjoining routes, using smaller vessels and surveillance systems to close security gaps.
“We have adopted the 4D doctrine to detect, deter, disrupt and deny criminal activity in the maritime domain,” Mustapha said. “We are leveraging technology such as the Falcon Eye and the Regional Maritime Awareness Capability System to drive intelligence-led operations.”
The naval chief said the command has also expanded community engagement and outreach programs to reduce crime and improve livelihoods in coastal areas.
He praised NOWA for its support, describing the association as a key partner in sustaining operational effectiveness.
“An unstable home front cannot produce effectiveness at sea,” he said. “NOWA has continued to bridge gaps in welfare, education, and empowerment, which directly supports our operational success.”
Mustapha added that aligning Navy operations with NOWA initiatives would strengthen efficiency and professionalism across the service.
“We will continue to support NOWA and develop innovative ways to work together to achieve shared goals,” he said.
In her remarks, NOWA President Aisha Idi Abbas, commended the Navy’s leadership and reaffirmed NOWA’s commitment to supporting personnel families and welfare initiatives.
“Our association remains committed to the welfare and well-being of naval families,” she said. “We aim to provide a supportive network that strengthens unity and resilience within the community.”
She noted that NOWA, as a non-governmental and non-profit organization, relies on collaboration and support to expand its impact.
Abbas also thanked the Western Naval Command for hosting the visit and supporting the association’s activities.
The event also marked the foundation-laying ceremony for the proposed Officers’ Mess and Boat Club, aimed at improving welfare and recreational facilities within the command.
