The Nigerian Navy, working with other security agencies, has uncovered an alleged fake recruitment and training scheme operating as the “Nigeria Coast Guard Academy” in Akwa Ibom State.
The operation was carried out on Monday, August 31, 2026, at the Merchant Seaman Academy in Uwa-West, Essien Udim Local Government Area, following intelligence about the organisation’s activities.
Personnel of NNS JUBILEE, alongside troops of 2 Brigade/Operation THUNDER, 6 Battalion of the Nigerian Army and the Akwa Ibom State Police Command’s Violent Crime Response Unit, took part in the raid.
The security team found dozens of young men and women on the academy’s field undergoing military-style drills as “provisional cadets”.
A banner at the facility advertised ND, HND and BSc programmes in Marine Engineering, Nautical Science and Security Management.
The academy also claimed to have approval from the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board and the National Board for Technical Education.
However, preliminary investigations showed that the institution allegedly had no legal backing or approval to operate as advertised.
Six suspected organisers and officials, five recruits or trainees and one listed cadet were arrested, bringing the total number of suspects to 12.
The suspects were handed over to the Violent Crime Response Unit for further investigation and possible prosecution, while the Navy warned Nigerians to verify recruitment offers through official government channels.
The Director of Naval Information, Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, urged the public not to give money or personal information to organisations without proper legal recognition or regulatory approval.