The Nigerian Navy is set 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 26th – 28th November, 2024 at the Transcorp Hilton Abuja, with the theme: “Maritime Security and Sustainable Development in the Gulf of Guinea”.
According to the Director of Information (DINFO), Commodore Aiyuwor Adams-Aliu in a statement in Abuja on behalf of the Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla on Saturday explained that the aim is to promote maritime security in the region and strengthen cooperation and coordination for effective maritime law enforcement.
The Symposium will also provide a platform for naval and coast guard practitioners in the region to coalesce ideas on maritime security and safety while deepening the implementation of the Yaoundé Code of Conduct.
The event will feature two days of three Strategic Sessions on Regional and International Cooperation for Maritime Security in the Gulf of Guinea, Maritime Domain Awareness and Information Sharing as well as necessary Legal and Regulatory Framework for Maritime Security Operations.
It was gathered that the Gulf of Guinea maritime environment is quite renowned for its enormous commercial activities that drive the economies of over 25 countries in Central and West Africa.
Accordingly, “On the global stage, the region reportedly accounts for about 15% of global oil consumption, as well as approximately 5 – 6% of global oil production.
Having proven oil reserves of approximately 50-60 billion barrels, the region is certainly vital in the global energy landscape more so that it accounts for about 30% 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 multidimensional partnerships.
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.
Heads of Navies and Coastguards of the Gulf of Guinea countries and representatives of regional and International will participate in the symposium.
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