The Round Table of Shipowner Associations and the Oil Companies International Marine Forum (OCIMF) have expressed their ‘full support’ for the launch of Nigeria’s Deep Blue Project which aims to stamp out piracy in the Gulf of Guinea, reports BIMCO.
Addressing piracy at GoG
Nigeria has pledged a ‘significant investment’ for the multi-agency project, which will be managed by the Nigerian Maritime Safety Agency (NIMASA).
A central command and control centre based in Lagos will oversee a network of integrated assets including two special mission vessels, two special mission long- range aircraft, 17 fast-response vessels capable of speeds of 50 knots, three helicopters, and four airborne drones, providing 24/7 cover for the region. These complement the Yaounde ICC structure.
A possible game changer!
Guy Platten, ICS Secretary General said: ‘The Deep Blue Project can be a game-changer in the fight against piracy in the Gulf of Guinea, and we congratulate Nigeria in launching the project despite the significant difficulties presented by COVID.‘
‘We look forward to continuing our close cooperation with NIMASA and the Nigerian Navy to realise our shared vision of a region free from the threat of piracy and armed robbery.’
David Loosley, BIMCO Secretary General, added: ‘Deep Blue becoming operational represents a significant opportunity to expand law and order at sea in cooperation with international forces in the area.’
