Nigeria Pledges Comprehensive Support for Gulf of Guinea Security Force Headquarters
Nigeria has made a significant commitment to bolster maritime security in the Gulf of Guinea by offering full infrastructural and operational support for the headquarters of the Combined Maritime Task Force. This pledge, announced at a high-level African Union meeting, underscores Nigeria's leadership role in regional security efforts.
Operational Assets and Infrastructure Commitment
Vice President Kashim Shettima, representing President Bola Tinubu at the 39th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government of the African Union, confirmed Nigeria's hosting of the task force headquarters. The support package includes office buildings, naval ships, helicopters, and temporary personnel to ensure the force remains effective in its mission.
"As host of this taskforce, Nigeria will provide infrastructure, including office buildings, ships, helicopters and temporary personnel to ensure that the Force remains effective in combating transnational organised crimes and enhancing maritime security across the region," Vice President Shettima stated during his address.
Broader Continental Security and Governance Agenda
Beyond maritime security, Nigeria used the platform to advocate for stronger continental collaboration on multiple fronts. The country highlighted several pressing challenges requiring collective African action:
- Addressing widespread insecurity across the continent
- Managing growing debt distress affecting many African nations
- Preventing exploitation of Africa's valuable mineral resources
Nigeria also acknowledged progress toward operationalising the African Standby Force while encouraging faster implementation of agreements between the AU Commission and Regional Economic Communities and Mechanisms.
Strengthening Africa's Legal and Governance Frameworks
Vice President Shettima further supported several institutional initiatives aimed at strengthening Africa's governance structures:
- Deeper consultations on activating the African Court of Justice
- Intensified advocacy for ratification of the African Parliament protocol
These steps were described as critical for enhancing Africa's legal frameworks and governance systems, creating a more robust foundation for continental cooperation and development.
The commitment to hosting and supporting the Combined Maritime Task Force headquarters represents a tangible demonstration of Nigeria's dedication to regional security cooperation. By providing both physical infrastructure and operational assets, Nigeria positions itself as a key partner in securing the vital Gulf of Guinea maritime routes against transnational criminal activities.
