African nations could soon stage their largest-ever maritime collaboration as AU Commissioner Bankole Adeoye proposes a groundbreaking pan-African naval exercise in 2027. The bold plan, revealed during a high-profile visit to Nigeria's Naval Headquarters this week, aims to transform maritime security across the continent.
Nigeria Takes Center Stage
With Africa's strongest naval fleet according to Global Firepower rankings, Nigeria is being tapped as a key partner for the initiative. Adeoye called for Abuja's leadership in both regional ECOWAS Zone E drills and the continent-wide exercise, which would welcome global naval partners.
From Pirate Waters to Peacekeepers
The proposal builds on Nigeria's recent security wins – including its 2022 removal from piracy watchlists – and aligns with the African Continental Free Trade Area's vision. 🌍⚖️ 'Our navies must become the backbone of economic integration,' Adeoye emphasized during the visit.
Next Wave of Cooperation
While Vice Admiral Idi Abbas confirmed Nigeria's commitment to secure waters, all eyes now turn to 2027 planning. Could this become Africa's answer to global naval exercises like RIMPAC? 🚢💡 One thing's clear: the continent is charting a new course in collective security.
