MARITIME SECURITY: Nigerian, Pakistan Navies Set To Collaborate

The Chief Staff Officer of the Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral Abdul Hammed Baba Inna, welcomed a delegation from the Pakistan Navy War College, emphasizing the ongoing collaboration between the two nations to enhance maritime security and safety. The visit is part of a continuous program of exchanges between the Nigerian Navy and Pakistan Navy.

Rear Admiral Baba Inna, addressing the media, highlighted the significance of such collaborations between maritime nations. He expressed the regret that the Flag Officer of the Western Naval Command Rear Admiral Mustapha Bala Hassan, currently engaged in an activity in Abuja, was unable to meet the delegation but hoped they would have the opportunity during the visit.

The Pakistan team led by
Commodore Abid Hussain, ACNS SOF&M (Special Ops Forces in Marines), Commander Asad Yaseen, Directing Staff (Navy), Wing Commander Raz Abid, Directing Staff (Air) emphasized the shared maritime interests between the two nations, emphasizing the need for collaborative efforts, exchanges, and operations to exchange ideas and learn from each other. Acknowledging the impressive capabilities of the Pakistan Navy’s special forces, he mentioned that Nigerian personnel have trained in those institutions.

In terms of the vast maritime environment, the collaboration between the two nations is deemed necessary for the West African sub-region.

Rear Admiral Baba Inna pointed out the arrangements with Gulf of Guinea nations and other West African countries. He highlighted the success of collaborative efforts in curbing piracy, particularly in Nigerian waters, with no significant reports in the past two years.

The collaboration and training in the maritime environment have greatly contributed to this success. The team leader further mentioned the continuous exchange program, with officers from both countries benefiting from each other’s expertise for the benefit of their respective nations.

Rear Admiral Baba Inna reiterated the cordial relationship maintained over the years between the Nigerian Navy and Pakistan Navy.

He emphasized that the collaboration is a continuous process and is expected to yield mutual benefits. The Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, has stressed the importance of sustaining such collaborations for the betterment of the Nigerian Navy.

The Western Naval Command, as the Premier Command in the Nigerian Navy, has been actively engaged in receiving delegations and participating in collaborative efforts, exercises, and support initiatives with various nations. The continuous process is anticipated to further enhance the capabilities and effectiveness of the Nigerian Navy in safeguarding maritime security.