By Victor Akaa
The navies of Nigeria, Togo, and Benin Republic have launched Operation SAFE DOMAIN (OPSD) III to checkmate piracy, trafficking, bunkering and curb other existential threats of insecurity in the maritime domain within the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Zone E.
The strategic collaborative operation launch took in a groundbreaking ceremony held on August 5, 2024, at the Multinational Maritime Coordination Center (MMCC) Zone E conference centre in Cotonou, Benin Republic.
This ambitious initiative aims to fortify the blue economy of the ECOWAS Zone E through unprecedented maritime security collaboration.
Commodore Aniedi Aniedu Ibok, Director of MMCC Zone E, during his remarks, emphasized the need for collective action against multifaceted threats plaguing the region’s maritime domain, including sea robbery, piracy, IUU fishing, and trafficking.
He averred that Operation SAFE DOMAIN III seeks to revolutionize maritime security by pooling resources, enhancing capacity, and fostering cooperation among member states and international partners.
He highlighted the operation’s threefold objective to include; combating maritime crimes, promoting information exchange and cooperation, and creating a secure environment for maritime commerce to boost trade and economic growth.
Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, Nigeria’s Chief of the Naval Staff represented by Rear Admiral MB Hassan, highlighted the operation’s goal of enhancing maritime safety and security across the Gulf of Guinea.
The Special Guest of Honour, Minister of National Defence Benin Republic, Mr. Fortunet Alain Nouatin, represented by Brigadier General Sanni Bachabi commended the collaborative efforts and wished the participants success in achieving the exercise’s objectives.
The ceremony drew a distinguished gathering of VVIPs from the maritime sector and culminated in a symbolic flag-off and group photographs, marking the beginning of a new era in maritime security cooperation.
Source: Facebook| Nigerian Navy
