Nigeria Expands Deep Blue Project for Maritime Security

The Federal Government of Nigeria announced plans to expand the Deep Blue Project to vulnerable maritime corridors, including Bakassi and Igbokoda, as part of efforts to strengthen the country's maritime security architecture. Dr. Adegboyega Oyetola, Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, disclosed this during the graduation ceremony for 492 advanced combat personnel at the 5th Battalion Army Barracks in Elele, Rivers State.

The expansion targets critical coastal areas and aims to consolidate gains already recorded in national security and infrastructure protection. Since the establishment of the Deep Blue Project in 2021, Nigeria has recorded zero piracy incidents in its territorial waters over the past four years, with piracy incidents across the Gulf of Guinea declining by 70%.

The project employs integrated air, land, and sea assets to support advanced surveillance systems and rapid response capabilities. Graduates from the program include personnel trained in various specialized operations, enhancing Nigeria's maritime security framework.