Maritime Security: NIMASA undertakes special enforcement operation, strengthens intelligence-led maritime compliance
Maureen Aguta
The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, NIMASA, deploying assets of the Integrated National Security and Waterways Protection Infrastructure, otherwise known as the Deep Blue structure and relevant maritime security units, embarked on a coordinated enforcement operation code named “Blue- Green” across key operational areas in Lagos
The operation which combined intelligence gathering, analysis and target development with coordinated enforcement at sea saw the deployment of a new specialised intelligence capability within the NIMASA Deep Blue and Command, Control, Communications, Computers, and Intelligence System, C4i, designed to improve the identification, assessment and the prioritisation of vessels of interest. The capability supported more focused target selection and provided real-time intelligence support to enforcement teams during the operation.
The Director General of NIMASA Dr Dayo Mobereola said that this operation “Blue-Green” enforcement will now be a regular occurrence. In his words “following the outcome of the operation, we at NIMASA will formalise Blue – Green as a recurring intelligence-led enforcement model and progressively expand similar operations to other maritime regions, including Port Harcourt, Calabar and Warri, in line with operational readiness and intelligence priorities.
“This deployment of multiple enforcement platforms is to serve as deterrent to anybody with criminal intentions. We are glad with the level of cooperation from the armed forces”, he stated.
During the operation, several vessels were boarded and inspected, for document verification and compliance screening. The inspections covered statutory certification, cargo and voyage documentation, surcharge obligations and cabotage compliance requirements.
Operation “Blue – Green” demonstrated the value of combining NIMASA’s enforcement capabilities with C4i intelligence and Deep Blue maritime assets, providing a foundation for more structured and sustained intelligence-led enforcement operations aimed at strengthening maritime compliance and supporting improved revenue generation.