The Tactical riverine operations exercise started on Monday, March 17, 2025, with lectures on Brown Water Operations, Tactical Combat Casualty, and Fire-Fighting procedures. The cadets then participated in Fire-Fighting drills, practicals on Weapon Handling Awareness, Road Block, and Crowd Dispersal.
On Thursday 20th March 2025, the cadets engaged in practical Boat Handling and Beach Landing Drill, simulating a rescue scenario. The exercise concluded with a Range Classification Exercise.
In his remarks, the Commandant of Nigerian Naval College, Rear Admiral Haruna Shimi Zego emphasised that Tactical Riverine Operation is one of the series of exercises that the cadets will be exposed to before their graduation.
Rear Admiral Zego noted that the exercise's objective is to introduce the cadets to basic tactical riverine operations and prepare them to tackle the Contemporary operational Challenges experienced in the Country.
He said the training is designed to fulfil spectrum 5 of the Nigerian Navy's total Spectrum Maritime Strategy which focuses on land-based operations. The training covers basic maritime riverine and land tactics, beach landing and other matters that ensure the safety and security of the maritime domain.
Rear Admiral Zego advised participants to approach the exercise with dedication. discipline, and professionalism.
"Pay close attention to your instructors, apply your training effectively, and demonstrate teamwork at all times. Remember, riverine operations are not solely about firepower – they require tactical precision, situational awareness, and strategic thinking. While this exercise is designed to simulate real-life scenarios, I must emphasize the importance of safety. All participants must adhere strictly to safety protocols and put on appropriate PPES."
He therefore urged them as they embark on the exercise to embrace the challenges ahead. He stressed that the skills they will acquire will not only enhance their operational competence but also contribute significantly to the security and stability of the Nation. "I have no doubt that you will demonstrate the courage, resilience and commitment expected of future leaders In the Nigeria Armed Forces", he said.
Dignitaries at the event include; Major General EE Emekah, General Officer Commanding 6 Division Nigerian Army; Rear Admiral VD Choji, Commandant of Nigerian Navy Basic Training School; Rear Admiral AJ Siyanbade, Chief Staff Officer Naval Training Command; Rear Admiral EE Ebe, Admiral Superintendent Naval Shipyard Limited and Special Guest of Honour; Mr. I Okoh, Assistant Director Operations, Department of State Services, representing the Director; and Assistant Comptroller IM Bala, representing Comptroller Mohammed Babandede, Comptroller of Customs Onne Area.
The Tactical Riverine Operations exercise for officer cadets of the Naval College under the command of Rear Admiral Haruna Shimi Zego is expected to conclude on Saturday, March 22, 2025, with practicals on Patrol, formation, and signal, as well as Close Quarter Combat, where the officer cadets demonstrated their marksmanship skills.
