The Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, has reaffirmed that sustained collaboration with key stakeholders is essential to securing Nigeria’s maritime domain.
The Director of Naval Information, Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, disclosed this in a statement on Wednesday, following a courtesy visit by the Chief Executive Officer/Managing Director of New Guard Security & Consultancy Services Limited (NGSCL), Major General Jamil Sarham (Rtd), to Naval Headquarters in Abuja.
TheFact Daily reports that Nigeria’s maritime security efforts have evolved quite a bit in recent years—mainly because of how critical the sea is to its economy. Most of the country’s oil exports, imports, and offshore assets depend on safe waters, especially in the Gulf of Guinea.
Overall, Nigerisn Navy’s strategy today is less about isolated action and more about coordination—between the military, private security firms, regional allies, and international partners. That mix has started to pay off, with reported piracy incidents in Nigerian waters dropping significantly in recent years, though challenges like smuggling and illegal fishing still persist.
During the visit, the NGSCL CEO outlined the firm’s role as a coordinating interface between government security agencies and Private Security Companies (PSCs), aimed at standardising operations, improving regulatory compliance, and enhancing synergy within the security architecture.
He added that the company has established a Project Management Office and commenced full operations, noting that ongoing engagements have reduced operational frictions between PSCs and the Armed Forces.
Sarham also commended the Nigerian Navy’s professionalism and sustained efforts in combating crude oil theft, which he said have contributed to improved oil production and bolstered national economic stability.
In his remarks, the CNS welcomed the initiative and stressed the need for institutionalised collaboration to tackle evolving maritime threats. He noted that previous areas of friction with PSCs had been significantly reduced and assured continued Navy support for coordinated efforts to protect critical national assets.
He reiterated the Navy’s commitment to strengthening partnerships that enhance maritime security and ensure long-term stability in Nigeria’s waters.
