Nigeria’s new Chief of Naval Staff, Rear Admiral Zubairu Gambo, says Nigerian Navy personnel are corrupt and colluding with drug traffickers, maritime pirates and economic saboteurs. He warns they will be identified and sanctioned.
Gambo unveiled his bold vision and mission statements in Abuja last week which has set a clear indication to industry stakeholders that he is determined to seek out the issues that are hindering Nigeria from finding resolutions to their maritime security crisis.
By identifying Navy personnel that collude with criminal enterprise, Rear Admiral Gambo has charted a clear path for accountability. Nigeria continues to be plagued with piracy, with 8 incidents recorded already in 2021; one member of the MV Mozart was killed during one of these attacks.
Craig de Savoye is Protection Vessels International West Africa specialist;
“Gambo’s comments come at a crucial time; a time when Nigeria needs to show real impetus towards alleviating the maritime security crisis that is blighting its waters.
“Publicly citing these concerns over corruption will reiterate to Nigerian Naval staff that criminal activity and collusion will not be tolerated. A tough message, but one that is much needed”.
“Our in-country teams continue to partner with local security organisations to ensure best practices are followed across all areas of maritime security provision.”