ONSA Launches Rapid Response 3 Exercise in Delta State

On Monday, the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) launched Rapid Response 3 (CRE 2026) in Asaba, Delta. This five-day national crisis response exercise aims to strengthen Nigeria's preparedness and inter-agency coordination during complex emergencies.

Rear Admiral Adedotun Ayo-Vaughan, Director of the Presidential Command and Control Centre (DPC4-ONSA), stated that the exercise will operate across Gold, Silver, and Bronze command levels and will consist of four phases: pre-exercise briefing, enabler training, the main Exercise Day (D-Day), and an after-action review. Ayo-Vaughan emphasized that the exercise is a simulation and does not represent an actual emergency.

This is the first time ONSA is hosting the exercise outside the Federal Capital Territory, facilitated by Delta Governor Sheriff Oborevwori. The public has been notified to avoid panic during the exercise, which will involve heavy movements of security and emergency response vehicles.

The exercise is set to begin on September 11, 2026, and will include various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to test crisis management plans.