TheCable

Emmanuel Ogalla, chief of naval staff, says cutting-edge technologies are imperative if the country must enhance its national security.

Ogalla said this on Friday while inaugurating 12 Comstrac system ovation unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to improve capacity in the fight against maritime crime, in Lagos.

Ogalla, who was represented by Zakariyyah Muhammed, chief of training and operations, said the surveillance UAVs would complement the existing air assets of the navy.

“In an era where the nature of warfare is evolving rapidly, embracing cutting-edge technologies becomes imperative for enhancing our national security,” he said.

“These UAVs, with their advanced capabilities and versatility, will undoubtedly enhance our naval surveillance for furtherance of strategic capabilities.

“I have no doubt that this will rejig the Nigerian Navy towards better service delivery in the maritime domain of our dear country.”

Ogalla said the navy is expecting five more helicopters to be delivered within the first quarter of 2024.

“This will make safer waters for both local and international maritime trade,” he said.

Ogalla commended the western naval command for its innovative approach to maintaining a credible maritime presence and tackling criminality in the area.