Nigerian Navy Intercepts 67 Stowaways, Large Quantities of Contraband Under Commodore Oladejo
Commodore Rafiu Oladejo, the outgoing Commander of the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) BEECROFT, has highlighted significant achievements during his tenure, including the seizure of 265 bags of cannabis sativa in 2024. The drugs were intercepted and handed over to the appropriate authorities. Oladejo shared these accomplishments during his send-off parade at the NNS BEECROFT parade ground in Apapa, Lagos, on Thursday.
Nigerian Navy Intercepts 67 Stowaways, Large Quantities of Contraband Under Commodore Oladejo
In addition to the drug seizure, Oladejo reported the interception of 67 stowaways attempting to board overseas-bound ships, the most recent being eight individuals discovered on the MSC KATYANI on January 20. He also mentioned the Base’s successful operations against smuggling, with over 18 large wooden boats carrying foreign parboiled rice, petroleum products, and other contraband seized during his command.
Commodore Oladejo Reflects on NNS BEECROFT’s Successes in Anti-Smuggling Operations
Oladejo, who assumed command of NNS BEECROFT on March 14, 2024, and has now been succeeded by Commodore Paul Nimmyel, emphasized that the Base’s actions were aligned with the Chief of Naval Staff Vice Adm. Emmanuel Oghalla’s Strategic Directive 2023-6. This directive focused on the Western Naval Command’s operational priorities, ensuring national security and prosperity.
Under his leadership, NNS BEECROFT played a key role in promoting maritime safety, with significant operations aimed at curbing sea robbery, illegal oil bunkering, pipeline vandalism, and other criminal activities in the region.
NNS BEECROFT Commander Oladejo Hands Over to Commodore Paul Nimmyel After Key Maritime Wins
Oladejo also spoke about the Base’s successful rescue operations, including the recent search and rescue of the MV MAMALUCK offshore Lekki on January 29, 2025. He concluded his tenure with pride, citing the Base’s unyielding commitment to maritime security and ensuring that the Nigerian Navy remained a formidable force in the region.
