By Obiabin Onukwugha
The Nigerian government has pledged full infrastructural and operational support for the Combined Maritime Task Force so as to boost security in the Gulf of Guinea.
The government pledged to provide office buildings, ships, helicopters, and temporary staff as the host nation of the force’s headquarters.
The government also called for a stronger, coordinated African response to security threats, debt distress and mineral exploitation on the continent.
President Bola Tinubu represented by Vice President, Kashim Shettima, made the pledge while speaking during the 39th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government of the African Union (AU), which held in South Africa recently.
A statement issued by Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications, Office of the Vice President, Stanley Nkwocha, on Monday, said Shettima’s submissions followed the presentation of the report on thematic agenda items of the AU, including peace and security, integration and sustainable development, and Africa’s voice.
“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,” he said.
The vice president welcomed the progress recorded on the African Standby Force (ASF) and encouraged accelerated implementation of the MoU between the commission and the Regional Economic Communities/Regional Mechanisms (RECs/RMs).
He, therefore, expressed support for a deeper analysis to advance the activation of the African Court of Justice and intensified advocacy for the ratification of the African Parliament protocol.
