Nigerian Navy has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening maritime security cooperation with the United Arab Emirates to protect strategic trade routes in the Gulf of Guinea.
Vice-Admiral Idi Abbas, the Chief of the Naval Staff, stated this during a meeting with the UAE Ambassador to Nigeria, Saylem Alshamsi.
Vice-Admiral Abbas described the construction of NNS KADA in Sharjah as a symbol of the growing partnership between the Nigerian Navy and the UAE.
The naval chief expressed optimism that deeper cooperation in naval technology transfer would strengthen indigenous shipbuilding capacity, improve fleet readiness and enhance maritime security operations across the Gulf of Guinea.
UAE commends anti-oil theft operations
Ambassador Alshamsi commended the Nigerian Navy for its role in protecting critical maritime infrastructure and securing the nation’s waters.
He particularly praised Operation DELTA SENTINEL, citing the recent seizure of large quantities of crude oil and petroleum products by naval personnel.
The ambassador said increasing trade and commercial activities between Nigeria and its international partners highlighted the need for a secure Gulf of Guinea.
According to him, stronger international maritime cooperation is vital for uninterrupted maritime commerce, regional economic stability and global shipping confidence.
RN