Nigeria to provide office, ships, helicopters for Gulf of Guinea Security Force HQ

Nigeria has committed to supplying full infrastructural and operational backing for the headquarters of the Combined Maritime Task Force in the Gulf of Guinea.

The pledge includes the provision of office facilities, naval assets, helicopters and temporary personnel to support the force’s activities as it works to strengthen maritime security in the region.

Speaking at the 39th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government of the African Union, Vice President Kashim Shettima, who represented President Bola Tinubu, confirmed that Nigeria would host the Combined Maritime Task Force for the Gulf of Guinea.

“As host of this taskforce, Nigeria will provide infrastructure, including office buildings, ships, helicopters and temporary personnel to ensure that the Force remains effective in combating transnational organised crimes and enhancing maritime security across the region,” the vice president said.

Beyond maritime security, Nigeria called for stronger continental collaboration in addressing pressing challenges such as insecurity, debt distress and the exploitation of Africa’s mineral resources.

The country also acknowledged progress made toward operationalising the African Standby Force and encouraged faster implementation of agreements between the AU Commission and Regional Economic Communities and Mechanisms.

Vice President Shettima further supported deeper consultations on activating the African Court of Justice and intensified advocacy for ratification of the African Parliament protocol, describing them as critical steps toward strengthening Africa’s governance and legal frameworks.