An Assessment of the Role of Nigerian Navy in Enhancing Regional Cohesion and Mitigating Security Threats Within the Gulf of Guinea Environment

Abstract

This study assesses the role of the Nigerian Navy in the maritime environment. Global maritime environment is an indispensable medium to mankind, both as a source of livelihood and a catalyst for national development. Contemporary growth of the maritime industry comes with great security and safety challenges. Maritime security revolves around safety and security within and around the maritime domains of a nation. It points to threats and how to mitigate these threats. The Gulf of Guinea is a vast, diverse and highly important region covering about 250,000 sq. nm connecting about 16 countries that are strung along roughly 6,000 kilometers of unbroken coastline. The study aims to assess the contributions of the Nigerian Navy operations within the GoG region. Exploratory research method was utilised with semi structured interviews and questionnaires as instruments of data collection. Propositions were highlighted and affirmed based on the responses of respondents and available records. The findings revealed that NN operations had been effective and efficient in enhancing security and regional maritime cohesion. It also discovered that the insufficient requisite platforms and dearth of funds are key challenges to NN operations. The study therefore recommends the creation of a Joint Multinational Maritime Force (JMMF) and coordination centre to aid liaison and sharing of resources among others.