By Chimezie Godfrey
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) and the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) have sealed a strategic security alliance to safeguard Nigeria’s maritime assets and drive the nation’s blue economy.
This was disclosed in a statement issued by Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, Director of Public Relations and Information, Headquarters Nigerian Air Force.
The statement said NIMASA Director-General, Dr Dayo Mobereola, visited the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, in Abuja on February 20, 2026, where both agencies agreed to deepen air–maritime cooperation under the Deep Blue Project.
Mobereola described maritime security as the backbone of economic stability and global trade, revealing that Nigeria has maintained zero piracy incidents in its territorial waters for four consecutive years.
He noted that the achievement boosted investor confidence and strengthened Nigeria’s global maritime standing.
According to him, rising maritime traffic now requires stronger surveillance, intelligence sharing and rapid response, stressing that partnership with the Air Force would guarantee continuous aerial monitoring and proactive deterrence.
Aneke, in his response, pledged the Air Force’s full operational support and highlighted its maritime-role air assets including long-range surveillance aircraft, maritime patrol platforms, drones and rapid-response aircraft.
He explained that the capabilities provide real-time monitoring, tracking and coordinated intervention for the protection of sea routes and offshore infrastructure.
The CAS added that advanced sensors and inter-agency communication systems enable seamless coordination, noting that air power significantly enhances maritime security enforcement.
Both agencies said the renewed partnership supports the Federal Government’s drive to maximise maritime resources, stimulate economic growth and create jobs.