The President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, commended the Nigerian Navy for its commitment to maritime security, saying “I pledge my administration’s continuous support for all the laudable objectives of the Nigerian Navy, as well as initiatives that will promote security within the Gulf of Guinea.”

The commendation came during the opening ceremony of the 8th Symposium of Heads of Navies and CoastGuards of the Gulf of Guinea Region on Wednesday 27 November, 2024. The President who was the Special Guest of Honour was represented by the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu. Also present were the Honorable Minister of State for Defence, His Excellency Dr Bello Muhammed Mattawalle MON, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Gwabin Musa OFR and the Director General Department of State Services, Mr Adeola Oluwatosin Ajayi, MON.

The President further commended the Nigerian Navy for its efforts in securing the Niger Delta and promoting maritime security in the region.

“I acknowledge the lead role you are playing in the increase of crude oil production and security in the Niger Delta,” he said.

The first day of the symposium witnessed discussions on the Gulf of Guinea including contributions from the Mr Gauthier Mignot of the European Union, Commodore RM Shammah of the Nigerian Navy and Rear Admiral Massiliano Lauretti of the Italian Navy.