NSA Launches 2026 Rapid Response 3 Crisis Exercise in Delta
By Trek Africa Newspaper
The Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) has commenced the 2026 Rapid Response 3 Crisis Response Exercise (CRE 2026) in Asaba, Delta State, in a major test of Nigeria’s preparedness to respond to complex emergencies and security threats.
The five-day multi-agency simulation exercise, which began on Monday, September 7, will run until Friday, September 11, bringing together relevant Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) involved in crisis management and emergency response.
According to the Director, Presidential Command and Control Centre (DPC4-ONSA), Rear Admiral Adedotun Olukayode Ayo-Vaughan, the exercise is designed to test existing response plans, procedures, coordination mechanisms and operational capabilities.
He said the exercise would also strengthen inter-agency cooperation, communication, command and control, as well as rapid deployment and effective management of crisis situations.
Participants will operate across the Gold, Silver and Bronze command levels, in line with the crisis response framework contained in the National Crisis Management Doctrine.
The scenarios have been designed to test how quickly participating agencies can respond, coordinate their efforts and manage the consequences of a simulated crisis.
The organisers stressed that the exercise is being conducted in a controlled environment and does not represent an actual emergency or security incident.
First ONSA Crisis Exercise Outside Abuja
The ONSA said the 2026 exercise marks the first time the Crisis Response Exercise is being conducted outside the Federal Capital Territory, with Asaba selected as the host location.
Ayo-Vaughan attributed the development to the support of the Delta State Government under Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, describing the cooperation as evidence of the state government’s commitment to the security of lives and property.
The exercise locations, he said, were carefully selected after several reconnaissance missions to ensure realism and seamless execution.
The five-day programme will be conducted in four phases, beginning with the pre-exercise briefing, followed by enabler training for participating components.
Thursday, September 10, will serve as the main Exercise Day, while Friday will be devoted to the After Action Review, where observations and lessons from stakeholders, observers, exercise planners and commanders will be assessed.
According to the organisers, the lessons gathered will help improve future crisis response exercises and Nigeria’s broader crisis management architecture.
Residents Warned Against Panic
The ONSA also warned residents and members of the public not to panic over increased security activities expected within designated areas during the exercise.
There will be heavy movements of security vehicles, personnel, emergency response teams and other exercise-related activities as part of the simulation.
The public has been informed through SMS and radio messages and advised to distinguish the exercise activities from real-life emergencies.
The media was equally urged to report only verified information and avoid publishing unconfirmed reports capable of causing unnecessary panic.
Only accredited media personnel will be permitted to cover activities within the exercise areas, while adequate safety and security measures have been put in place for participants, observers, journalists and members of the public.
The ONSA said the success of Rapid Response 3 depends on the cooperation of participating agencies, stakeholders, the media and the general public, adding that the exercise provides an opportunity to assess Nigeria’s collective preparedness and strengthen the country’s crisis management capabilities.
