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 (NAF) in support of the Nigerian government’s maritime security effort.
The Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sadique Abubakar, made the announcement when the Director-General of NIMASA, Dr. Bashir Jamoh, paid a working visit to the Nigerian Air Force headquarters in Abuja. NIMASA had previously requested 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, Dr. Jamoh noted that NIMASA was committed to ensuring the success of the Deep Blue Project with adequate cooperation from all stakeholders. He stated, “We have received two Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV), and the two special mission aircraft are expected to arrive in 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.” Dr. Jamoh disclosed that 17 fast interceptor boats, 15 armored 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.
Read the rest of the report from Homeland Security Today here.
