The United States Coast Guard Cutter Mohawk (WMEC 913) was welcomed at the Nigerian Naval Dockyard in Lagos on August 18 for a scheduled port visit. This was done in accordance with the maritime partnership between the United States and Nigeria, which aims to promote peace, stability, and security in Africa.
According to the itinerary, the visit will allow Mohawk officers to meet with Nigerian Navy leadership at the Western Navy Command Headquarters in Apapa and host tours of ships for Nigerian military and government personnel.
Following the port visit, Mohawk will engage in two days of marine security cooperation with the Nigerian Navy.
The United States is dedicated to supporting the Nigerian Navy in its efforts to defend both its own territorial waters and those of the larger Gulf of Guinea, the Consul General Will Stevens reaffirmed in his welcome speech. To strengthen Nigeria's ability to combat piracy, oil bunkering, illegal fishing, and other sea-based illicit activities, cooperation and the capacity to operate together in the maritime domain are required.
A longstanding maritime alliance between the US and Nigeria works to advance security, stability, and peace throughout Africa. Nigeria will host the following iteration of exercise Obangame Express in January 2023. Obangame Express is the largest multinational yearly maritime security exercise in West Africa. Obangame Express promotes international cooperation to address common maritime problems.
Shortly after the ship’s arrival, Consul General Will Stevens and Commander Andrew Pate, Mohawk’s Commanding Officer, met with Rear Admiral Yakubu Wambai, the Flag Officer Commanding of Nigeria’s Western Naval Command, to discuss the United States and Nigeria’s shared commitment to a safe and secure Gulf of Guinea.
The waters surrounding the African continent are crucial for Africa’s prosperity and access to global markets. The United States shares a common interest with African partners in ensuring security, safety, and freedom of navigation.