Spanish Navy Visits Nigerian Counterpart to Strengthen Bilateral Ties, Maritime Security 

Chiemelie Ezeobi 

To strengthen the long standing relationship between both nations, as well as reiterate its commitment in curbing maritime crimes in the Gulf of Guinea (GoG), the Spanish Navy recently paid a port call to the Western Naval Command (WNC) of the Nigerian Navy.

The Spanish Navy was received by the Flag Officer Commanding(FOC), Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral Mustapha Hassan, who noted that both nations have had a good history in terms of bilateral relations and maritime security.

He added that the Spanish Navy had been present during Exercise Obangame Express, which was geared at ensuring the waters were safe for legal activities.

He said: “Our two countries have had a history of cooperation in terms of maritime security. You have been present in Obangame Express and Spain is doing a good job towards ensuring global security.

“We need to improve in a lot of areas on collaboration in terms of training and ship building and human interactions.”

He further assured that the Nigerian Navy would work together with the Spanish Navy and give the much needed cooperation to boost maritime security. 

In turn, the Commanding Officer or Spanish Navy Ship (SNS) BAM TORNADO, Lieutenant Commander David Castillo, who came with the Spanish Ambassador to Nigeria, Juan Ignacio Sell, while appreciating the Nigerian Navy for the warm welcome it had received since their visit in Lagos, said the maritime space must be protected.

Reiterating commitment to a secured maritime, he said this can only be achieved through collaboration because of the volume of trade between the two countries.

“I am really honored and grateful for receiving us as you know our ships are in Lagos for coordinated maritime presence.

“We need to protect our waters. We are much aware of the role Nigeria is doing at protecting the waters and what we need is partnership.

“The Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, has accepted the invitation of the Spanish Navy coming to Nigeria  for maritime partnership and we are here today to meet with you and your officers

“It is by working together we can face this challenges and we always enjoy the best hospitality when we come to Lagos,” he said.

During the visit, the ship will carry out exercises/drills with the Nigerian Navy personnel in addition to other engagements

Given that about 80 per cent of the trade with Nigeria goes through the Gulf of Guinea, both navies agree that it was  important to collaborate and share essential information, hence the joint exercises.