Lagos, [Date] - In a substantial effort to address unlawful activities such as piracy and illicit trafficking in the Gulf of Guinea, the Royal Navy warship HMS Trent docked in Lagos on Sunday, September 10, 2023.

According to a statement from the British High Commission, this visit to Nigeria is the second for the ship.

HMS Trent's mission in Nigeria, having set sail from Gibraltar, is diverse. Its primary objectives include delivering capacity training and offering assistance for maritime security in the sub-region. The ship is equipped with a proficient boarding team composed of UK Royal Marines and a Puma surveillance drone, bolstering its capabilities in combating criminal activities at sea.

One of the primary objectives behind HMS Trent's deployment is to aid West African allies in enhancing their maritime security capabilities. This initiative is crucial in ensuring that these nations can play an effective role in promoting stability throughout the broader West African region.

Commander Tim Langford, the Commanding Officer of HMS Trent, expressed his appreciation for the opportunity to return to Nigeria. He underscored the significance of this visit during the ship's three-month deployment to West Africa, saying, "We eagerly anticipate collaborating with our partner nations as we work toward a sustainable solution to maritime insecurity across the region."

The Royal Navy's history of involvement in the region is well-established, and this deployment further builds upon the enduring partnership with the Armed Forces of Nigeria. The visit aims to reinforce the relationships established during HMS Trent's previous visit to Lagos in 2021.

Jonny Baxter, serving as the UK Deputy High Commissioner in Lagos, underscored the significance of this deployment in addressing mutual international security concerns. He conveyed, "Nigeria holds a pivotal role as a valued defense partner for the UK in West Africa. Both our nations confront numerous shared challenges, and we are committed to collaborating with Nigeria to counter these threats and enhance maritime security in the Gulf of Guinea."

HMS Trent's deployment aligns seamlessly with the broader international initiative spearheaded by the Friends of the Gulf of Guinea (FOGG). This initiative lends support to Gulf of Guinea nations as they implement regional maritime security frameworks, ultimately contributing to stability in a region that has experienced disruptions to global shipping, endangered the lives of seafarers, and harmed local economies.