BY PHILIP NWOSU
The Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, officially launched Operation Safe Domain III at the Port of Cotonou. This initiative marks a significant step in a combined maritime security effort within the Multinational Maritime Coordination Zone E.
Represented by Rear Admiral Mustapha Bala Hassan, Vice Admiral Ogalla highlighted the operation’s aim to improve maritime safety and security across the Gulf of Guinea. He emphasized the importance of Operation Safe Domain in addressing past maritime security issues in the region.
Operation Safe Domain I and II, conducted in November 2021 and September 2023 respectively, have shown progress in combating piracy, sea robbery, and other maritime crimes. Vice Admiral Ogalla credited the success of these operations to the coordinated efforts of ECOWAS, maritime security stakeholders, and international partners. He also noted the shift from international sponsorship to full ownership by Zone E member states, showcasing a strong commitment to maritime safety and security.
The Naval Chief acknowledged the support from the heads of government of Zone E member states and his colleague heads of Service. He expressed gratitude to international partners for their continued assistance in achieving the objectives of the Yaoundé Accord and Protocol for Maritime Security.
Operation Safe Domain III aims to build on previous operations, enhancing information sharing and collaboration among participants. Vice Admiral Ogalla encouraged participants to use their experiences and expertise for a seamless and effective operation.
In his opening address, Commodore Aniedi Ibok, Director of the Multinational Maritime Coordination Centre (MMCC) Zone E, welcomed the guests and participants, emphasizing the significance of their presence as a testament to their collective resolve for a secure maritime environment in West Africa.
Commodore Ibok noted the ECOWAS Maritime Domain’s challenges, including piracy, sea robbery, and various forms of trafficking, which have hindered economic development and impacted local communities. He highlighted the adoption of the ECOWAS Integrated Maritime Strategy (EIMS) in 2014, which established a comprehensive maritime security architecture, including MMCCs in Cotonou, Accra, and Praia.
“The mission of the Centre is to strengthen activities aimed at cooperation, coordination, pooling, and interoperability of resources among Zone E Member States,” stated Commodore Ibok. He also mentioned a significant reduction in maritime crime incidents, from 49 reported piracy cases in 2018 to just 2 in 2023, attributing this success to coordinated efforts by ECOWAS, member states, and international partners.
Commodore Ibok outlined the objectives of Operation Safe Domain III, focusing on enhancing the capacity of navies and maritime security agencies, promoting information exchange and cooperation, and creating a safe environment for maritime commerce. He acknowledged the contributions of Zone E Member States, ECOWAS, and international partners in supporting the Centre’s mission.
The launch of Operation Safe Domain III represents a significant milestone in addressing maritime security challenges in the Gulf of Guinea. It demonstrates the commitment of ECOWAS Member States to work collaboratively in securing their maritime domain.
As Vice Admiral Ogalla officially flagged off the operation, he expressed optimism for a successful outcome, fostering better cooperation, faster information exchange, and improved interoperability to ensure the safety and security of the maritime space.