The 8th Symposium of Heads of Navies and Coast Guards of the Gulf of Guinea commenced on Wednesday at the Transcorp Hilton, Abuja, with a strong focus on enhancing maritime security and fostering sustainable development in the region.
The two-day event, scheduled to conclude on Thursday, brought together key stakeholders to address the pressing security challenges in one of the world’s most strategically important maritime zones.
Themed “Maritime Security and Sustainable Development in the Gulf of Guinea,” the high-level gathering is organized by the Nigerian Navy in collaboration with the European Union and the French Navy.
The Symposium seeks to bolster regional cooperation, improve maritime law enforcement, and ensure the safety of the Gulf of Guinea, a region critical to global energy supply and trade.

Representing President Bola Tinubu, the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, delivered a keynote address highlighting Nigeria’s commitment to fostering peace and security in the Gulf of Guinea.
He underscored the need for collective action and strategic partnerships to combat maritime threats such as piracy, human trafficking, illegal fishing, and other transnational crimes.
Bello Matawalle, Minister of State for Defence, praised the Nigerian Navy for its leadership in hosting the event, noting its importance in ensuring regional stability.
He also commended the support of international partners like the European Union and the French Navy, whose contributions have been instrumental in strengthening maritime security frameworks in the region.
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Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, Chief of Naval Staff and host of the Symposium, emphasized the link between maritime security and economic development.
He reaffirmed the Nigerian Navy’s dedication to fostering collaboration and information sharing to address security challenges effectively.
The opening ceremony was graced by notable figures, including General Christopher G. Musa, Chief of Defence Staff, and representatives from regional and international organizations.
Heads of Navies and Coast Guards from across the Gulf of Guinea reaffirmed their commitment to coordinated efforts in securing the maritime domain.
As a key player in the region, Nigeria reiterated its leadership role in addressing the Gulf of Guinea’s security challenges.
The Symposium serves as a platform for dialogue, strategy development, and partnership-building to ensure the region continues to thrive as a global hub for commerce and sustainable growth.