Spain Commends Nigerian Navy’s Success in Reducing Piracy in Gulf of Guinea
The Spanish Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Juan Ignacio, has praised the Nigerian Navy for its significant efforts in curbing piracy and maritime crimes in the Gulf of Guinea.
The commendation came during a courtesy visit by the Spanish Navy Warship BAM METEORO to the Western Naval Command in Apapa, Lagos State, on Wednesday. The four-day visit, which runs from September 24 to 27, aims to strengthen bilateral relations and improve maritime security between the two countries.
Ambassador Ignacio emphasized that maritime security is a shared responsibility, noting, “We are interested in having safe seas and safe waters for a prosperous maritime business environment.” He acknowledged the Nigerian Navy’s leadership role in the region, stating it has shown greater capacity and capabilities compared to other coastal states.
The Spanish envoy highlighted the importance of collaboration, particularly mentioning the presence of two distinguished Nigerian Navy officers aboard the Spanish warship as part of the ongoing sea exercise, which will last for two months. “This kind of development transforms our relationship from being mere visitors to becoming true partners,” he added.
Responding, the Flag Officer Commanding (FOC) of the Western Naval Command, Rear Adm. Christopher Hassan, remarked that this was the second visit by the Spanish warship to Nigeria in the past year, signaling the strong collaboration between the two nations. He noted that the visit is part of the European Union’s coordinated maritime presence initiative to enhance security in the Gulf of Guinea.
Rear Adm. Hassan also pointed out that the Spanish warship’s presence in Nigerian waters had not reported any negative incidents, which reflects the effective suppression of maritime crime in the Gulf of Guinea. He further stated that the involvement of Nigerian naval officers in the exercise aboard the Spanish warship would facilitate the exchange of ideas and enhance operational strategies.
