EU calls for improved maritime security in Nigeria
The European Union, through the West and Central Africa Port Security, has emphasized the need for heightened maritime security measures.
EU stated this on Thursday in Lagos, Nigeria, during the WeCAP's first mission training ceremony.
This comes weeks after the National Boundary Commission granted the federal government permission to extend its exclusive economic zones from 200 to 350 nautical miles.
Nico Vertogen, the Team Leader of WeCAPs, spoke at the event and emphasized the need to strengthen the security and safety of West and Central African ports.
According to him, it will assist in reducing vulnerabilities and risks, thereby enhancing skills and vigilance.
Vertogen noted that the port's perimeter fencing, the installation of CCTVs, and the use of access badges, among other measures, strengthened the nation's port security.
"WeCAPS is not a method of issuing yellow or red cards, but rather a method of collaboration among colleagues and experts," he explained.
Earlier, Mohammed Khalil, General Manager of Security for the Nigerian Ports Authority, explained that the mission, which began in August 2022, was funded by the European Union and led by Expertise France.
He stated that the organization collaborated with the Nigerian Ports Authority and the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency.
Khalil added that the training's success demonstrated the authority's resolve and dedication to partnership and collaboration with international organizations.
"Such as EF, the Port Management Association of West and Central Africa, and the Defense Threat Reduction Agency of the United States, among others," he said, "in order to address identified gaps and vulnerabilities in the ports with a view to enhancing the country's operational efficiency and optimizing its service delivery performance."
He explained that the ports were among the vital national infrastructure and assets, which also included maritime transportation systems and related industries.
"As an integral component of the global maritime logistics and supply chain, the safety and security of the ports are of the utmost importance to the global economy," he continued.
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