NAPLES, Italy – The U.S. and Nigerian navies came together for staff talks in Naples, Italy, this week, demonstrating their commitment to a stronger partnership in ensuring maritime security in Africa.
Admiral Stuart Munsch, commander of U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa (NAVEUR-NAVAF), and Rear Admiral Zakariyyah Muhammad, Chief of Training and Operations for the Nigerian Navy, led their respective delegations in discussions on critical topics like capacity building, maritime domain awareness, and integrating their efforts at sea.
The two-day event provided an opportunity for both sides to share their plans and priorities for 2024, exploring potential areas for collaboration. Admiral Munsch praised the Nigerian Navy’s crucial role in safeguarding vital maritime corridors across Africa, highlighting their ongoing participation in exercises like Obangame Express, which fosters regional cooperation and combats piracy and other illicit activities.
“Having our Nigerian counterparts here allows for crucial discussions on how to further strengthen our partnership,” said Admiral Munsch. “Their dedication to regional security, as evidenced by their participation in Obangame Express, is invaluable.”
Rear Admiral Muhammad echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the long-standing relationship between the two navies and their eagerness to continue working together. “We deeply appreciate NAVEUR-NAVAF for hosting these talks and look forward to even stronger collaboration in the future,” he stated.
Leave a comment