British warship in Nigeria to combat oil theft, sea piracy

British warship in Nigeria to combat oil theft, sea piracy

A UK Royal Navy warship, has arrived in Lagos to support Nigeria’s efforts to combat sea piracy, oil theft and other forms of maritime crime.

The warship HMS Trent reportedly arrived in the country on Sunday.

Official reports say the development will enable the Royal Navy to deliver capacity training and maritime support on combating sea piracy and illegal trafficking.

Speaking on the deployment of the warship, HMS Trent’s Commanding Officer, Tim Langford, said the visit was an opportunity for the UK navy to work with their Nigerian counterparts.

“The Royal Navy has a long history of engagement within the region and an enduring partnership with the Armed Forces of Nigeria,” Langford said.

“This is an opportunity for the Royal Navy and the Nigerian Navy to work together in order for us to identify possible solutions in the maritime environment and counter insecurity on the high sea.

“We are together to understand the lessons that all nations have identified individually and share the lessons with each other.”

The UK Deputy High Commissioner in Lagos, Jonny Baxter, said a secure environment would support trade, investment, and prosperity between the two countries.

“Nigeria is an important and valued defence partner for the UK in West Africa,” Baxter said.

“Our two countries face many shared threats and we are keen to work with Nigeria to defeat these and to help improve maritime security in the Gulf of Guinea.”