Nigerian Navy Launches Multinational Maritime Exercise to Boost Gulf of Guinea Security

The Nigerian Navy has officially launched a large-scale, multinational maritime exercise titled “EX GRAND AFRICAN NEMO 2024” to bolster security efforts across the Gulf of Guinea.

The exercise is designed to enhance collaboration among West African nations and international allies in tackling transnational maritime security threats, including piracy, illegal fishing, and crude oil theft.

The Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, highlighted the importance of the exercise in fostering regional security and economic stability. In a speech delivered on his behalf by Rear Admiral Izu, the Admiral Superintendent Naval Ordnance Depot, Vice Admiral Ogalla emphasized the need for African-led solutions to maritime security challenges, stressing that EX GRAND AFRICAN NEMO 2024 reflects the Nigerian Navy’s dedication to regional cooperation.

A Platform for Regional Cooperation
Vice Admiral Ogalla explained that the exercise brings together navies and coastguards from Gulf of Guinea countries along with strategic international partners, creating a united front to address common threats in the region. He noted that these joint efforts are critical for establishing a secure maritime environment, essential for economic growth in West Africa.

“The exercise creates an opportunity for like-minded partners within the sub-region to work together to develop African-led solutions to transnational threats and challenges with the strategic aim of promoting regional security,” said Ogalla. He added that collaboration on such a scale demonstrates a shared commitment to stability in the Gulf of Guinea, a vital area for regional trade and resources.

Rear Admiral Izu reiterated the Nigerian Navy’s dedication to maintaining a secure maritime space, acknowledging that safeguarding the Gulf of Guinea requires the cooperation of neighboring countries and allies. He pointed to recent developments between the Nigerian Navy and the African Union (AU) as further evidence of this commitment. In particular, he highlighted the progress made towards signing a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on strategic sea lift capabilities, which he described as a major step toward enhancing regional maritime security.

“The recent collaborative efforts between the Nigerian Navy and the African Union, aimed at signing an MoU on strategic sea lift provisions, reflect our commitment to regional collaboration. This development aligns with our broader objectives to maintain safe and secure maritime waters,” Rear Admiral Izu explained.

Focus on the African Union’s Maritime Task Force
One of the major goals of EX GRAND AFRICAN NEMO 2024 is to support the establishment of a combined maritime task force under the African Union. This task force will provide a platform for African nations to enhance their maritime defense capabilities, effectively addressing transnational maritime crimes that affect the Gulf of Guinea and surrounding areas.

The combined maritime task force will coordinate operations across the Gulf of Guinea, bringing regional expertise and resources to the forefront. It is expected to address a wide range of security issues, including illegal fishing, smuggling, and piracy. With such a coordinated approach, officials believe that the task force will help in significantly reducing the rate of criminal activities and provide a sustainable solution to maritime security concerns.

Vice Admiral Ogalla reaffirmed the Nigerian Navy’s commitment not only to defending Nigeria’s territorial integrity but also to contributing actively to regional peace and security. He emphasized that the exercise will serve as a robust training platform, enhancing the readiness of participating navies to respond to potential security threats. Under his leadership, Ogalla stated, the Nigerian Navy is committed to eradicating crude oil theft and other illicit maritime activities in Nigerian waters, which have long posed challenges to the country’s economy and security.

International Collaboration in Maritime Security
Rear Admiral Mike Oamen, Flag Officer Commanding Western Naval Command and the Chief Host of the event, highlighted the international dimension of the exercise, expressing optimism about the positive impacts that such collaboration could have on maritime security in the Gulf of Guinea. Admiral Oamen emphasized that international partnerships are crucial in combating transnational crimes in West African waters.

“The international nature of this exercise brings additional expertise and resources to our regional efforts,” Admiral Oamen said. “We are optimistic that the collaboration with international allies will have a lasting positive impact on maritime security in the Gulf of Guinea.”

The Gulf of Guinea has long been a hotspot for maritime crime, with illegal activities impacting both local economies and international shipping. According to the International Maritime Bureau, the region has seen an increase in incidents of piracy, making it one of the most dangerous areas for maritime operations worldwide. As such, the presence of international forces and allies in the exercise underscores the importance of global partnerships in addressing these challenges.

Building Capacities to Combat Maritime Crime
EX GRAND AFRICAN NEMO 2024 is expected to significantly boost the capabilities of regional navies and coastguards, providing training in real-world scenarios and fostering coordination between different military and civilian agencies. The Nigerian Navy has equipped its forces with the latest technology and resources to handle the various phases of the exercise, including simulated rescue missions, anti-piracy operations, and interdiction of illegal fishing vessels.

This exercise is particularly significant as it builds operational competencies among participating nations, enabling them to act as a cohesive unit when confronting threats. According to the Nigerian Navy, the increased collaboration is aimed at creating a self-sustaining security network that will serve as a deterrent to maritime criminals.

Through hands-on training and sharing of resources, the Nigerian Navy hopes that regional partners will be better prepared to handle maritime threats. The exercise also includes joint simulations with other navies, allowing participants to apply strategies and techniques in real-time situations. This practical approach aims to create a culture of shared responsibility among the nations involved, further strengthening their ability to secure the region’s waters.

Economic Benefits of Maritime Security
A stable maritime environment is essential for the economies of Gulf of Guinea nations, as much of their trade relies on safe and secure shipping routes. Illegal activities, including oil theft and smuggling, have negative repercussions for the region’s economies, which are heavily dependent on offshore resources.

The Nigerian Navy asserts that initiatives like EX GRAND AFRICAN NEMO not only address immediate security challenges but also lay the groundwork for sustainable economic growth. By reducing risks associated with maritime trade, these efforts aim to attract investment and improve trade efficiency.

As EX GRAND AFRICAN NEMO 2024 progresses, the Nigerian Navy and its allies remain optimistic about the outcomes. The exercise serves as both a demonstration of military capability and a testament to the collective resolve of Gulf of Guinea nations to maintain regional security. With enhanced regional cooperation, there is hope that the Gulf of Guinea will become a safer, more prosperous area for all stakeholders involved.