The longstanding naval cooperation between Nigeria and Brazil received a major boost as the Commander of the Brazilian Navy’s Task Group GUINEX V, Rear Admiral Antonio Braz, led a high-profile delegation to the Western Naval Command in Lagos. The visit marks a continuation of strategic military collaboration and is expected to culminate in the signing of a long-awaited defense agreement between both countries.

Rear Admiral Braz, speaking during a meeting with senior officers of the Nigerian Navy, said the purpose of the GUINEX operation is to foster mutual exchange and bolster maritime security in the Gulf of Guinea. He revealed that the operation, which will span three months, would see the Brazilian Navy sail from Nigeria to Cameroon, sharing experiences and participating in joint activities along the way.

“This is the purpose of our operation,” Braz reiterated. “We are here to share our experiences, enhance cooperation, and improve maritime security in the Gulf of Guinea. Our relationship with Nigeria is strategic. Nigeria is the only West African country we’ve visited every year in the past five editions of GUINEX because we consider the Nigerian Navy to be one of the most important navies in the region.”

The admiral also disclosed that a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Nigeria and Brazil, focused on defense cooperation, has been over a decade in negotiation and is now ready to be signed. The agreement includes provisions for enhanced naval engagement, officer exchange programs, and increased collaboration across areas such as agriculture, health, culture, politics, and security.

Speaking further, Admiral Braz highlighted the importance of friendship beyond institutional relations. “When we know each other and build friendships, not just formal partnerships, we can achieve more. That’s the spirit behind this mission,” he added.

Braz also noted the strategic importance of Nigeria to Brazil’s maritime trade, stating that over 90% of Brazil’s trade to Africa passes through South African and West African waters. “Improving maritime security in the Gulf of Guinea is essential for global commerce and regional stability,” he said.

Welcoming the Brazilian delegation, the Flag Officer Commanding (FOC) Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral Michael Oamen, expressed appreciation for the visit, describing it as a valuable opportunity for collaboration, training, and friendship.

“Engaging with a navy like the Brazilian Navy is an honor,” Rear Admiral Oamen said. “The Brazilian Navy is a strong force capable of projecting power beyond its shores, and the Nigerian Navy is pleased to partner with such a formidable force. These engagements help us build capacity and strengthen regional efforts to combat piracy, illegal fishing, arms trafficking, and other maritime crimes.”

He emphasized the Navy’s commitment to learning from joint exercises and capacity-building initiatives. “We look forward to sharing best practices and deepening our cooperation. Together, we are stronger and better equipped to fulfill our national and regional responsibilities,” he concluded.

Present during the courtesy call were several high-ranking officers from both navies. The Brazilian delegation included:
* Rear Admiral Antonio Braz – Commander, Task Group GUINEX V
* Colonel Marques – Brazilian Defence Attaché
* Counselor Celso França – Brazilian Consulate in Lagos
* Commander Almeida Matos – Commanding Officer, Frigate Defensora
* Lieutenant Wesley – Assistant to the Admiral
* Mr. Michael Olawumi – Advisor, Brazilian Consulate

Representing the Nigerian Navy were:
* Commodore A. Muhammad – Command Operations Officer
* Captain T.A. Ogunkoya – Command Technical Officer
* Captain L.D. Deyin – Fleet Operations Officer, Western Fleet
* Captain G.T. Adeyemi – Command Logistics Officer
* Sub Lieutenant A.A. Akindele – Representative, CINFO WEST

The visit not only underscored the strengthening relationship between Nigeria and Brazil but also reinforced the shared commitment to maritime security, capacity development, and strategic defense collaboration in West Africa.