Gulf of Guinea Security: Nigeria forges partnership with Spain, acquires new bulletproof boats
Nigeria and Spain have affirmed their commitment to deepen cooperation towards enhancing maritime security in the Gulf of Guinea.
This declaration came to light during the inspection of two state-of-the-art bulletproof security boats, commissioned by the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) and built by the Spanish company Aresa.
His Excellency, Ambassador Juan Ignacio Sell, the Spanish Ambassador to Nigeria, expressed Spain’s keen interest in fortifying collaboration with Nigeria through enhanced engagement with NIMASA.
Ambassador Juan hailed the milestone as a crucial step in maritime security cooperation between the two nations.
He emphasised Spain’s acknowledgment of Nigeria’s pivotal role in ensuring security within the Gulf of Guinea, highlighting the presence of a Spanish naval ship dedicated to enhancing maritime security in the region.
“The Spanish government sees Nigeria as a key partner in achieving maritime security in the Gulf of Guinea,” Ambassador Juan stated, echoing the sentiments of his government’s commitment to fostering closer ties with Nigeria in the maritime sector.
He commended Nigeria’s recent strides in maritime development, particularly noting the establishment of the Marine and Blue Economy Ministry under President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
Responding to the ambassador’s remarks, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, the Director-General of NIMASA, affirmed the agency’s dedication to expedite the deployment of the newly acquired patrol boats.
Dr. Mobereola underscored the importance of collaboration in maritime security endeavors, emphasising that no single country can address maritime threats in isolation.
“Maritime security cannot be achieved unilaterally. Collaboration is essential for ensuring safety and security in our maritime domain,” Dr. Mobereola said, lauding Spain’s gesture and expressing readiness to explore avenues for further collaboration in both human and infrastructural development.
The two bulletproof security boats, each capable of accommodating eight passengers, boast impressive specifications.
With a length of 13.2 meters and a fuel capacity of 3000 liters, these vessels are equipped with fully air-conditioned cabins and possess a range of 500 nautical miles.
Powered by two 2,300 horsepower outboard engines, the boats can achieve maximum speeds of 45 knots and cruising speeds of 25 knots, making them formidable assets in maritime security operations.
With the addition of these two boats, NIMASA’s fleet now comprises seven fast intervention bulletproof Aresa boats, poised to be deployed imminently to enhance security within Nigerian waters.
In a statement signed by Osagie Edward, Assistant Director/Head, Public Relations, NIMASA, the agency explained that partnership between Nigeria and Spain in maritime security underscores the collective resolve to combat maritime threats and safeguard the vital maritime trade routes in the Gulf of Guinea.
As both nations continue to deepen their cooperation, the newly acquired security boats represent a tangible step towards enhancing security and promoting economic prosperity in the region.
