The Nigerian Navy has deployed six ships and two helicopters for the multinational Exercise Obangame Express 2025, aimed at enhancing maritime security in the Gulf of Guinea.

The exercise, running from May 9 to 13, 2025, brings together partners from the Gulf of Guinea, the Americas, and Europe to tackle maritime security concerns.

According to Rear Admiral MG Oamen, representing the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, the exercise focuses on combating small arms and light weapons trafficking, as well as anti-narcotics operations.

The Spanish ship ESPS RELAMPAGO will also participate in the exercise, further strengthening international collaboration.

He noted that the multinational exercise is designed to improve operational readiness, maritime domain awareness, information-sharing practices, and tactical interdiction expertise among participating nations.

By working together, the navies can enhance their collective capabilities to counter sea-based illicit activities, promoting regional security and economic development.

The deployment of assets, including the Nigerian Navy’s Special Boat Service and maritime domain awareness assets, demonstrates the navy’s commitment to addressing maritime threats in the region.

Exercise Obangame Express has been ongoing since 2010, with growing participation from nations and individually evaluated events, highlighting its importance in promoting maritime security in the Gulf of Guinea.