The Nigerian Naval Dockyard in Lagos has welcomed the US Coast Guard Cutter Mohawk (WMEC 913) for a prearranged port call.
According to a statement from the American Consulate, the Mohawk arrived in Lagos on Thursday, August 18, 2022.
According to the embassy, Mohawk officers will hold ship tours for Nigerian government and military officials and meet with senior commanders of the Nigerian Navy at the Western Naval Command Headquarters in Apapa during their visit.
The U.S. Consul General in Lagos, Will Stevens, stated that his nation was dedicated to helping the Nigerian Navy in its efforts to protect both its own territorial waters and those of the larger Gulf of Guinea.
Rear Adm. Yakubu Wambai, the Flag Officer Commanding of Nigeria’s Western Naval Command, and Stevens met to discuss the U.S. and Nigeria’s shared commitment to a safe and secure Gulf of Guinea. Commander Andrew Pate, the commanding officer of Mohawk, also attended.
According to the embassy, Mohawk would engage in two days of at-sea interactions with the Nigerian Navy after the port visit to advance maritime security cooperation.
“Cooperation and the ability to operate together in the maritime domain are necessary to enhance Nigeria’s capacity to counter piracy, oil bunkering, illegal fishing, and other sea-based illicit activities.”
“Nigeria is a participant in exercise Obangame Express, the largest multinational annual maritime security exercise in West Africa, and will host the next iteration in January.
“Obangame Express encourages countries to work together to address transnational maritime challenges,” he said.
