The Nigerian and Portuguese navies have launched a five-day joint maritime exercise in Lagos aimed at strengthening security cooperation and improving interoperability in the Gulf of Guinea. Codenamed Exercise Coastal Grip II, the drills began at the Nigerian Navy Ship Beecroft Jetty in Apapa.
The exercise brings together Nigerian naval ships, helicopters, Special Boat Service personnel and the Western Naval Command’s Mission Control Centre, alongside Portugal’s NRP Álvares Cabral frigate. Personnel from the Nigerian Army, Air Force, Police, Customs Service and National Drug Law Enforcement Agency are also participating.
Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, said the exercise reflects Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening maritime security and ensuring effective coordination with international partners. He said threats such as sea robbery, oil theft, illegal fishing and trafficking in people, weapons and drugs require coordinated responses across national borders.
The drills will include maritime interdiction, air-sea coordination, communications exercises, ship maneuvers and joint mission planning. The activities are designed to enhance operational coordination, exchange expertise and improve the ability of both navies to respond to maritime threats.
Coastal Grip II builds on earlier cooperation between Nigeria and European maritime partners under the EU Support to West Africa Integrated Maritime Security program. Portugal has also provided two high-performance rigid-hull inflatable boats and training to the Nigerian Navy as part of efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s maritime law-enforcement capabilities.
The exercise comes as Gulf of Guinea states continue efforts to protect one of Africa’s most important maritime corridors from criminal activity. Nigeria and Portugal say closer operational cooperation can strengthen maritime security, protect economic resources and support stability across the region.
