Maritime operations in West Africa, especially in the inner Gulf of Guinea, are often complicated by a lack of security. Additional protection measures, both privately contracted or provided by national militaries, therefore continue to be in high demand. At the same time, operators should be aware of potential legal and operational risks when they are using such measures to protect ships, crews and cargoes.
Risk Intelligence has now published the latest guidance on the use of maritime security services in West Africa, including the use of armed guards, escort vessels or secure anchorages. The report is titled Maritime security services in West Africa – legal and operational challenges. It offers a birds-eye view on the situation in 19 countries throughout West and Central Africa, including Nigeria and other coastal states around the Gulf of Guinea.
“Our analysts have gathered extensive experience about the maritime security situation in West Africa. It is a complex picture with different types of threats in different areas,” says Hans Tino Hansen, CEO of Risk Intelligence. “Moreover, legal frameworks are often complicated, creating challenges in terms of risk mitigation. Our report is therefore important for all types of maritime operations throughout West Africa.”
Concise overview and explanations
The report provides a comprehensive look at risks related to the use of additional maritime security services in West Africa. Colour-coded tables for all 19 countries – including the coastal and island states between Senegal and Angola – offer a quick overview of the current situation. These are accompanied by explanations and assessments of the efficiency of specific security services against the main threats.
Subscribers will also receive an updated report in December and have access to Risk Intelligence’s West Africa specialists for related questions. Further information about the pricing of the report and additional details are available directly from Risk Intelligence.