By Sumaila Ogbaje
The heads of navies and coastguards of the Gulf of Guinea (GoG) countries are set to converge on Abuja for the 2024 symposium on maritime environment.
The symposium is to be hosted by the Nigerian Navy, in partnership with the European Union and the French Navy.
This is contained in a statement by the Director of Naval Information, Commodore Aiwuyor Adams-Aliu, on Friday in Abuja.
Adams-Aliu said the GoG maritime environment had been renowned for its enormous commercial activities that drove the economies of over 25 countries in Central and West Africa.
He added that the region reportedly accounted for about 15 per cent of global oil consumption, as well as approximately five per cent to six per cent of global oil production.
According to him, having proven oil reserves of approximately 50 billion barreld to 60 billion barrels, the region is certainly vital in the global energy landscape, especially as it accounts for about 30 per cent of world maritime traffic.
“Central to the enhancement of maritime security and safety in the region is the need for countries to strengthen regional cooperation and governance by fostering multi-dimensional partnerships.
“In view of the foregoing, the Nigerian Navy is scheduled to host the 2024 Symposium of the Heads of Navies and Coastguards of the Gulf of Guinea countries, in partnership with the European Union and the French Navy.
“The event is scheduled for Nov. 26 to Nov. 28 in Abuja, with the theme “Maritime Security and Sustainable Development in the Gulf of Guinea,” he said.
Adams-Aliu said that the aim would be to promote maritime security in the region and strengthen cooperation and coordination for effective maritime law enforcement.
He added that the symposium would provide a platform for naval and coast guard professionals in the region to coalesce ideas on maritime security and safety while deepening implementation of the Yaoundé Code of Conduct.
According to him, the event will feature two days of three strategic sessions on regional and international cooperation for maritime security in the GoG, maritime domain awareness and information sharing as well as necessary legal and regulatory framework for maritime security operations.
“The symposium will highlight issues related to analysing maritime security challenges, promoting an integrated approach to maritime security and developing tools to implement contemporary strategies. (NAN)