PC-NCG disclaims orientation exercise in Anambra

The Provisionary Committee of the Nigerian Coast Guard (PC-NCG) has disclaimed a purported national orientation exercise scheduled for September 1-7, 2025, at the Search and Rescue Ship Base Command in Anambra State.

The exercise is allegedly being organized by individuals claiming to be Nigerian Coast Guard personnel, but the PC-NCG asserts that they are ravenous impostors on a mission to defraud unsuspecting followers and the public.

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Speaking with newsmen in Abuja on Monday, the Chief Executive and Accounting Officer of PC-NCG, Capt. Ichaba described the group behind the planned national orientation exercise as illegal and fraudulent, warning that any individual or group found impersonating the proposed Nigerian Coast Guard will be arrested, investigated, and prosecuted.

Capt. Ichaba said nine suspects were recently arrested in Akwa Ibom State for claiming to be operatives of the Proposed Nigerian Coast Guard, stating that the impersonation of the Nigerian Coast Guard could have serious legal consequences.

He said the PC-NCG remains the only authentic unified body facilitating the process for the establishment of the Nigerian Coast Guard by providing useful information that helps relevant authorities, including the Federal Ministry of Marine & Blue Economy and other critical stakeholders in the maritime sector, in making proper decisions and drafting suitable legislation.

“Our committee is working towards establishing a robust Nigerian Coast Guard that would work in tandem with existing maritime security agencies to secure the country’s waterways.

“The federal government is yet to establish the Nigerian Coast Guard as the bill is before the 10th National Assembly for passage.

“Also, the federal government has not appointed a chief of the proposed Nigerian Coast Guard and has not yet assigned any rear admiral to superintend over the daily administrative affairs of the incoming maritime security agency,” Capt. Ichaba reiterated.

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He therefore cautioned persons exploiting the name, ‘Nigerian Coast Guard’ for illicit activities anywhere in the country and on the nation’s waterways to stop or be prepared to face the full weight of the law, referencing illegalities associated with a group bearing “Nigerian Merchant Navy Coastal Defence Force”, warning that the PC-NCG will not tolerate any group using the Nigerian Coast Guard’s name for unauthorized activities.

“I’m pleased that additional measures are already being taken to curb their illicit operations across the country, based on more disheartening discoveries that these feral wolves in sheep’s clothing have continued in their dishonest games despite these efforts.

“In contrast, the PC-NCG embodies inclusivity, teamwork, and a commitment to serving the nation with integrity, selflessness, and patriotism.

“Our initiative began with a genuine and patriotic intent, without displacing any group or individual.

“We have remained focused on our core objective, operating with transparency, accountability, and adherence to the law. An assertion that can be confirmed by relevant security agencies.

As a matter of averting escalated damage, “all identity cards and documents bearing the name ‘Nigerian Coast Guard’ that were not issued by the PC-NCG facilitation team should be returned to the issuer or handed over to the nearest police station.

Specifically, individuals who were deceived into believing they are now soldiers by being part of the Nigerian Coast Guard through false recruitment should return their ID cards or documents to the issuer, the nearest police station, or PC-NCG headquarters.

“The PC-NCG is well-positioned to provide insights and adapt to necessary adjustments, ensuring a smooth facilitation process.

“We’re committed to responding to inquiries from stakeholders, supporters, and potential collaborators.

“Though we had encountered challenges, particularly from individuals associated with the Nigerian Merchant Navy Groups, deemed illegal by law enforcement and the courts, we have remained focused on our objectives.

“PC-NCG is serving as a reliable facilitation team for the smooth take-off of the Nigerian Coast Guard upon its establishment.

“In the alternative, PC-NCG has readily prepared necessary grounds to effectively carry out the directives of the decision-makers in the event of being charged with the day-to-day management of the proposed maritime security agency.

“PC-NCG appeals to relevant authorities and the public to be vigilant and assist in halting any form of aiding, abetting, and promoting illegalities in the name of the Nigerian Coast Guard, as currently being done by the dishonourable persons in some parts of the country.

“When established, the Nigerian Coast Guard is expected to unlock significant economic potential in sectors like blue tourism, hospitality, and marine services, promote environmental sustainability and conservation, and address maritime security challenges, such as piracy, smuggling, and environmental degradation,” Capt. Ichaba explained.