The Honourable Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Muhammad Matawalle, has lauded the Nigerian Navy for its proactive leadership in organizing the 8th Edition of the Symposium of Heads of Navies and Coast Guards of the Gulf of Guinea.
Speaking at the opening ceremony held at the Transcorp Hilton, Abuja, Matawalle highlighted the event’s significance in addressing security challenges in the region, which is critical to global energy supply and maritime trade.
In a statement issued by his media aide, Ahmad Dan-Wudil, Matawalle also acknowledged the contributions of international partners, particularly the European Union and the French Navy, in enhancing maritime security frameworks.
The two-day event, themed “Maritime Security and Sustainable Development in the Gulf of Guinea,” aims to foster regional cooperation and strengthen maritime law enforcement.
It brings together key stakeholders, including Heads of Navies and Coast Guards, to tackle pressing issues such as piracy, illegal fishing, and transnational crimes.
Representing the Nigerian President, National Security Adviser Mallam Nuhu Ribadu delivered a keynote address reiterating Nigeria’s commitment to promoting regional maritime security and sustainable development.
Ribadu emphasized the importance of strategic partnerships and collective action in combating threats to the Gulf of Guinea’s stability.
Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, expressed gratitude to stakeholders for their support and reaffirmed the Nigerian Navy’s dedication to fostering peace and stability in the region.
He noted that maritime security remains a cornerstone of sustainable economic development for the Gulf of Guinea nations.
The opening ceremony was attended by notable dignitaries, including General Christopher G. Musa, Chief of Defence Staff, and representatives from regional and international organizations.