Abuja is set to host the 2024 Symposium on Maritime Security and Sustainable Development in the Gulf of Guinea (GoG), with heads of navies and coastguards from the region converging for the high-profile event.

The Nigerian Navy will host the symposium in collaboration with the European Union and the French Navy, according to a statement released by the Director of Naval Information, Commodore Aiwuyor Adams-Aliu, on Friday.

The symposium, scheduled for November 26–28, will address critical issues in maritime security and sustainability.

With a theme centered on “Maritime Security and Sustainable Development in the Gulf of Guinea,” the gathering seeks to foster regional cooperation and strengthen governance to tackle security challenges in the vital maritime corridor.

The GoG maritime environment is critical to global commerce, driving the economies of over 25 Central and West African nations. According to Adams-Aliu, the region contributes about 15% of global oil consumption and 5–6% of oil production, with proven reserves of 50–60 billion barrels. It also accounts for approximately 30% of world maritime traffic, underscoring its significance in the global energy landscape.

“The symposium aims to promote maritime security in the region and strengthen cooperation for effective maritime law enforcement,” Adams-Aliu said.

Delegates will explore key strategies to enhance maritime domain awareness, improve information sharing, and establish robust legal and regulatory frameworks.

The event will also focus on implementing the Yaoundé Code of Conduct, which provides a framework for cooperation in combatting piracy, armed robbery, and other maritime crimes.

The three-day event will feature three strategic sessions on:

1. Regional and international cooperation for maritime security.
2. Enhancing maritime domain awareness and information sharing.
3. Legal and regulatory frameworks for effective maritime security operations.

Participants will analyze security challenges, develop integrated approaches to maritime governance, and discuss tools to implement contemporary strategies.

pmnews