The Nigerian Navy has called for closer cooperation with Denmark to bolster maritime safety across the Gulf of Guinea.
The appeal was made by the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Adm. Idi Abbas, during a meeting with Denmark’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr Jen Hansen, at Naval Headquarters in Abuja.
Abbas noted that Nigeria is advancing plans for a Combined Maritime Task Force (CMTF), a multinational initiative designed to strengthen security coordination and address emerging threats in the region.
He explained that the effort is part of broader moves to develop a unified maritime security framework capable of tackling piracy, illegal activities, and other risks in the Gulf of Guinea.
Highlighting the importance of the region to global commerce, the naval chief stressed that maintaining a safe maritime environment remains a top priority for Nigeria.
According to him, the proposed task force—expected to commence operations by mid-2026—will bring together partner nations to improve surveillance, information sharing, and rapid response to security challenges.
He therefore urged Denmark to support both the rollout and sustainability of the initiative, noting that collective action would strengthen ongoing gains in maritime security.
Abbas also extended an invitation to the Danish Navy to participate in the Nigerian Navy’s upcoming International Fleet Review, aimed at boosting cooperation and operational synergy among navies.
In his remarks, Hansen reaffirmed Denmark’s willingness to deepen its partnership with Nigeria, particularly within the framework of its Africa-focused engagement strategy.
He acknowledged the progress made by Nigeria in safeguarding its maritime space and expressed readiness to collaborate further in promoting stability in the Gulf of Guinea.
Both sides reiterated their shared commitment to sustaining cooperation that would ensure safer waters and protect economic activities in the region, which remains a vital route for international shipping and trade.