Nigeria Charts a Course for Enhanced Maritime Collaboration with Gambia and Regional Security
Nigeria’s Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has underscored the nation’s commitment to bolstering maritime cooperation with the Gambia, aiming to fortify regional security and stimulate economic expansion. This declaration was made during the Fourth Blue Economy Conference held in Banjul, Gambia, a significant platform for discussing the sustainable utilization of ocean resources. Representing the minister, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, Director-General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), conveyed Nigeria’s unwavering dedication to extending its maritime security infrastructure beyond its national boundaries, emphasizing the potential expansion of the Deep Blue Project, a comprehensive maritime security initiative, to encompass a broader area within the Gulf of Guinea. This move underscores Nigeria’s strategic objective of establishing itself as a stabilizing force within the region, fostering collaborative efforts, and championing sustainable development through the blue economy concept.
The Gulf of Guinea, a vital maritime corridor, has faced considerable security challenges, including piracy and other illicit activities, which have disrupted trade and posed a threat to regional stability. Nigeria’s proactive approach, exemplified by the Deep Blue Project, aims to mitigate these risks and create a more secure environment for maritime operations. The project integrates various assets, including specialized vessels, aircraft, and advanced technology, to enhance surveillance, response capabilities, and law enforcement efforts. The minister’s statement highlighted the growing significance of the region in global trade, particularly with the increasing maritime traffic around Africa following disruptions in other crucial waterways like the Suez Canal. Nigeria’s commitment to extending the reach of the Deep Blue Project demonstrates a proactive response to this evolving maritime landscape, further solidifying its role in ensuring safety and security within the Gulf of Guinea.
Beyond regional collaboration, Nigeria has sought broader international support for its maritime leadership ambitions. Minister Oyetola urged delegates at the conference to back Nigeria’s bid for re-election to the International Maritime Organisation Council (Category ‘C’) for the 2026-2027 biennium. This prestigious position would provide Nigeria with a stronger voice in shaping global maritime policies and decisions, particularly in areas related to the blue economy, maritime safety, security, and environmental sustainability, crucial aspects considering the substantial volume of trade conducted within the West and Central African region. Nigeria’s presence on the IMO Council would further amplify Africa’s influence in shaping international maritime regulations and standards, advocating for the continent’s interests and priorities.
Nigeria’s accomplishments in enhancing maritime security have garnered international acclaim. Both the International Maritime Bureau (IMB) and the IMO have recognized and commended the country’s effective implementation of the Deep Blue Project, which has contributed to a sustained period of zero piracy incidents in Nigerian waters over the past three years. This achievement not only demonstrates the project’s efficacy but also underscores Nigeria’s determination to combat maritime crime and establish a more secure maritime domain. The minister emphasized Nigeria’s continuing dedication to cultivating strategic alliances, reinforcing maritime security, and promoting the collective economic interests of West and Central African nations through sustainable blue economy strategies.
This comprehensive approach reflects Nigeria’s vision for a vibrant and sustainable maritime sector, driven by international cooperation, robust security measures, and a commitment to the principles of the blue economy. The Deep Blue Project serves as a testament to Nigeria’s proactive stance on maritime security, setting an example for other nations in the region to emulate. By actively participating in international forums like the IMO and seeking positions of influence, Nigeria aims to contribute to the development of global maritime best practices and advocate for the specific needs and priorities of developing nations. The collaboration with Gambia further strengthens regional ties and fosters collective efforts to address shared maritime challenges.
Nigeria’s focus on the blue economy recognizes the vast potential of the ocean to contribute to economic growth, job creation, and sustainable development. By embracing this concept, Nigeria aims to unlock the numerous opportunities presented by its maritime resources while ensuring their responsible and sustainable utilization. The combination of robust security initiatives, international collaboration, and a focus on the blue economy positions Nigeria as a leading force in shaping the future of the maritime sector in West and Central Africa. This proactive approach not only benefits Nigeria but also contributes to the overall stability and prosperity of the region, paving the way for a more secure and sustainable maritime future.
