Efforts to improve safety in the Gulf of Guinea received a boost as the Nigerian Navy engaged with a United States congressional team in Lagos to deepen cooperation on maritime security.
The development was disclosed in Abuja by the Director of Naval Information, Capt. Abiodun Folorunsho.
According to him, the U.S. delegation, led by Mr. Adam Barker, visited the Western Naval Command Headquarters in Lagos, where they were hosted by the Flag Officer Commanding, Rear Adm. Abubakar Mustapha.
During the visit, Mustapha outlined the command’s responsibilities in protecting Nigeria’s maritime environment and supporting wider regional security efforts. He pointed to the importance of the Regional Maritime Awareness Capability (RMAC), describing it as a key platform for real-time surveillance, intelligence exchange, and coordinated responses to threats at sea.
He explained that the system has strengthened the Navy’s ability to tackle crimes such as sea robbery, crude oil theft, and other illegal activities, noting that its deployment played a role in curbing piracy in Nigerian waters in 2022 and contributed to the country’s removal from the International Maritime Bureau’s piracy watch list.
The naval chief also underscored the value of ongoing collaboration with international partners, particularly the United States, citing benefits such as training, technical assistance, and intelligence sharing.
Members of the delegation were given a tour of the RMAC facility and briefed on how it supports maritime operations and security enforcement.
In his remarks, Barker praised the Nigerian Navy’s initiatives and reiterated the United States’ readiness to sustain cooperation, noting that such engagements help both sides respond more effectively to emerging maritime challenges.
The visit highlights a growing commitment by both partners to strengthen joint efforts aimed at securing vital sea routes and maintaining stability in the region.