The Nigerian Navy, along with counterparts from Benin Republic, Togo, and the Republic of Niger, has deployed four warships, a logistics vessel, and a helicopter for the maritime security operation codenamed Safe Domain II to consolidate the gains in securing the Gulf of Guinea (GoG).

Flagged off in Cotonou, Benin Republic, this operation aims to enhance collaboration among subregional naval forces to address maritime threats.

Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS), emphasized that the operation would improve safety and security, with ECOWAS Zone E countries determined to keep the area off the piracy blacklist.

“We launched Safe Domain I in 2021 and Safe Domain II in 2023. Today, we commence with four ships—two from the Nigerian Navy, one from the Benin Navy, and one from the Togolese Navy.

“Additionally, we have land forces like the Gendarmerie from the Niger Navy and Special Forces along with a helicopter from the Nigerian Navy.

“The logistics and coordination are managed by the participating countries,” Ogalla noted.

“The primary objective is to enhance safety and security in the Gulf of Guinea, particularly in areas covered by these countries.

“The operation aims to foster better collaboration, faster information sharing, and an end to maritime crimes.”

Ogalla highlighted that while Safe Domain I had international support, subsequent operations, including the current one, are solely sponsored by Zone E member states.

“This demonstrates the member states’ commitment to taking ownership of the initiatives for maritime safety and security,” he said, represented by the FOC Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral Mohammed Hassan.

The deployed vessels will use real-time information and surveillance, with maritime domain infrastructure monitoring and alerting ships to suspicious areas.

Commodore Aniedi Ibok, Director of the Multinational Maritime Coordination Center (MMCC), praised the collective resolve to achieve a secure maritime environment in West Africa.

He noted that reported incidents of piracy had decreased significantly due to coordinated efforts by ECOWAS, international partners, and the Zone E member states.

Commodore Richard Sharma, Director of ECOWAS’ Regional Maritime Security Coordinating Centre (RMSCC), Abidjan, lauded the operation as a step in the right direction, emphasizing the importance of subregional collaboration using local resources.

Brig.-Gen. Sanni Bachabi, representing the Special Guest of Honour, Minister of National Defence of Benin Republic, Fortunet Alain Nouatin, also attended the event.