NIMASA, Airforce to deploy assets for Deep Blue Project, enhance maritime security
Air assets acquired under the Deep Blue Project, also called the Integrated National Security and Waterways Protection Infrastructure, domiciled with the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency ( NIMASA) are set for deployment by the Nigerian Air Force in support of the Federal Government’s maritime security effort.
Air Marshal Sadique Abubakar, chief of Air Staff, disclosed this when Bashir Jamoh, director-general of NIMASA paid a working visit to the Nigerian Air Force headquarters in Abuja, according to statement by Philip Kyanet, head, Corporate Communications of NIMASA.
Jamoh requested for adequate arrangement to receive and deploy the two special mission aircraft expected in the country in the next few months.
While commending the leadership of the Nigerian Air Force for its commitment to capacity development, Jamoh noted that NIMASA was committed to ensuring the success of the Deep Blue Project with adequate
cooperation from all stakeholders.
“We have received two Unmanned Aerial Vehicles ( UAV) and two special mission aircraft expected to arrive Nigeria before the end of the year. The challenges associated with the COVID-19 pandemic delayed the special training for the personnel to man these air assets, but we have found a way around it. We will continue to seek your partnership to secure the Nigerian maritime domain,” Jamoh said.
Jamoh disclosed that 17
fast interceptor boats, 15 armoured vehicles, and two special mission vessels were some of the land and marine assets already on the ground. He said all hands must be on deck to secure the country’s maritime environment and change all negative narratives.
Responding, Air Marshal Abubakar said the NAF had maintained a longstanding relationship with NIMASA, with an MOU on Maritime Air Surveillance and Intelligence signed in 2013. He said, though, the MOU had elapsed, NAF had continued to play a crucial
role in maritime security, working closely with the Nigerian Navy, and NIMASA.
Abubakar disclosed that Naf had recently established a Combat Reconnaissance Group (203 CRG) in Gombe State, primarily, to deal with the security challenges in the North-east and other parts of the North. He said the drones that would be deployed with the 203 CRG could be moved to any part of the country, including coastal locations, especially given the crucial place of the maritime environment to the survival of the country.