In a significant move to bolster maritime security in the Gulf of Guinea, the Royal Navy warship HMS Trent arrived in Lagos on Sunday for its second visit to Nigeria, as the British High Commission announced. The primary objective of this deployment is to support West African allies in their efforts to combat illegal activities, including piracy and illicit trafficking, in the sub-region.
HMS Trent, which departed from Gibraltar, has an expert boarding team comprised of UK Royal Marines and a Puma surveillance drone. The mission of HMS Trent aligns with the overarching goal of enhancing the capabilities of regional countries to effectively address maritime security challenges and contribute to stability in West Africa.
UK Government Statement
The British High Commission’s statement emphasized that this visit will facilitate capacity training and provide essential support for regional maritime security efforts.
With approximately £6 billion worth of UK trade passing through the Gulf of Guinea, HMS Trent’s responsibilities extend to safeguarding this vital economic corridor.
This will be achieved through training programs designed to empower partner navies to combat criminal activities at sea and by fostering collaborative ties and sharing expertise.
Commander Tim Langford, the Commanding Officer of HMS Trent, expressed his enthusiasm about returning to Nigeria, highlighting the ship’s three-month deployment to West Africa.
He emphasized the significance of working alongside partner nations to find a lasting solution to maritime insecurity in the region. The Royal Navy’s history of engagement in the Gulf of Guinea and its enduring partnership with the Armed Forces of Nigeria underscore the importance of this mission.
UK Deputy High Commissioner in Lagos, Jonny Baxter, noted the deployment’s strategic importance in addressing shared international security challenges. He emphasized the UK’s commitment to collaborating with Nigeria, a valued defense partner in West Africa, to combat threats and enhance maritime security in the Gulf of Guinea.
This deployment aligns with the broader international effort led by the Friends of the Gulf of Guinea (FOGG) to assist Gulf of Guinea nations in implementing regional maritime security frameworks.
By bringing stability to the region, this initiative seeks to counter disruptions to international shipping, protect seafarers, and support local economies.