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President Muhammadu Buhari, on Monday, May 22, said that the International Maritime Bureau (IMB) has delisted Nigeria from the list of piracy-prone countries.
Buhari further noted that piracy has reduced significantly in the country over the last seven years.
The president made this known at the 2023 presidential fleet review in Lagos state, held in his honour by the Nigerian Navy, with the theme “Fleet readiness for national prosperity.”
He said that the IMB, in March 2022, delisted Nigeria from the list of piracy-prone nations globally.
The president further noted that the Nigerian Navy achieved these feat due to collaborations with navies from partner nations.
Buhari said that this move boosted synergy in addressing illegalities within the Gulf of Guinea.
He noted that, “They had joint exercises such as Exercise OBANGAME EXPRESS, Exercise GRAND AFRICA NEMO and Exercise FLINTLOCK, to mention a few.
“These exercises have enhanced the Navy’s readiness for Maritime security operations.”
He also commended the heads of navies and coast guards as well as foreign allies for the useful cooperation.
The president also expressed appreciation for the donations and mutual military cooperation with ship building partner nations.
Buhari added that, “The Navy’s efforts in indigenous shipbuilding, in line with the nation’s local content development plan is yielding positive result.
“Our naval engineers were wholly responsible for building three seaward defence boats including NNS ANDONI, NNS KARADUWA and NNS OJI.
“In December 2021, I performed keel laying foundation for the construction of two Seaward Defence Boats, which will be ready by 2024.
“I have no doubt that our Navy will soon commence construction of larger ships for itself and other navies in the region and beyond.
“This achievement is a great pride to Nigeria and an impressive contribution to national development.”
He also acknowledged the cooperation of the Lagos state government, emphasizing the role of the state and stakeholders in the economy of the nation.
Buhari said that, “Let me also compliment the government and people of Lagos State and other maritime stakeholders for the critical support given to the country’s Navy in conducting this fleet review.
“Pertinently, more than half of our maritime trade pass through ports located in Lagos and as such continues to be a lifeline for the nation’s industry and economy.
“This strategic importance further underscores the necessity of cordial working relations,” he added.
He also commended the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Adm. Auwal Gambo, and the entire Navy personnel for the splendid conduct of the “historic event”.
Gambo, while speaking on Monday, commended the transformation of the Nigerian Navy within the eight years of the president’s tenure.
“His administration has repositioned the Navy for better service delivery and actualisation of its constitutional mandate,” he said.
Source: TheStreetJournal | Read More
