Chiemelie Ezeobi
As part of measures to strengthen the already existing partnership, a delegate from the Pakistan Navy War College recently paid a courtesy call to the Western Naval Command (WNC) of the Nigerian Navy (NN) in Apapa, Lagos.
Received by the Flag Officer Commanding (FOC), Western Naval Command (WNC), Rear Mustapha Hassan, who was represented by WNC Chief Staff Officer, Rear Admiral Abdulhammed Baba Inna, the navy
boss emphasised the ongoing collaboration between the two nations to enhance maritime security and safety.
While highlighting the significance of such collaborations between maritime nations, he said the visit was part of a continuous program of exchanges between the Nigerian Navy and Pakistan Navy, adding that officers from both countries benefit from each other’s expertise for the benefit of their respective nations.
Acknowledging the impressive capabilities of the Pakistan Navy’s special forces, he mentioned that Nigerian personnel have trained in those institutions, adding that given the vast maritime environment, the collaboration between the two nations is deemed necessary for the West African sub-region.
While pointing out the arrangements with Gulf of Guinea nations and other West African countries, he regaled the visitors with the success of collaborative efforts in curbing piracy, particularly in Nigerian waters, with no significant reports in the past two years.
He said: “The collaboration and training in the maritime environment have greatly contributed to this success. The collaboration is a continuous process and is expected to yield mutual benefits.
“The Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, has stressed the importance of sustaining such collaborations for the betterment of the Nigerian Navy.”
The Pakistan team led by
Commodore Abid Hussain, ACNS SOF&M (Special Ops Forces in Marines); Commander Asad Yaseen, Directing Staff (Navy); and Wing Commander Raz Abid, Directing Staff (Air), also re-echoed the shared maritime interests between the two nations.
They also spoke about the need for collaborative efforts, exchanges, and operations to exchange ideas and learn from each other.
The Western Naval Command, as the Premier Command in the Nigerian Navy, has been actively engaged in receiving delegations and participating in collaborative efforts, exercises, and support initiatives with various nations.
The continuous process is anticipated to further enhance the capabilities and effectiveness of the Nigerian Navy in safeguarding maritime security.
