From 7 to 9 October, several thousand delegates from across the world are expected to be in Nigeria’s capital Abuja for the Global Maritime Security Conference. The event is organised by the Federal Ministry of Transportation, the Nigerian Navy and the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA). It is also supported by various international organisations and stakeholders from the maritime industry such as UNODC, BIMCO and several others.
By hosting the conference, the Nigerian government wants to highlight its willingness to address maritime security issues in the country’s maritime domain. Moreover, discussions about the ongoing improvements within the Yaoundé process will also be an important part. This process was started with the adoption of the Yaoundé Code of Conduct in 2013 and brings together coastal countries from West and Central Africa. Governments in all countries are concerned a broad range of maritime security issues which were identified in the document.
In the context of eleven thematic sessions, a broad range of topics related to maritime security issues will be addressed. That includes topics like maritime governance and the blue economy, the role of civil societies as well as effective regional cooperation. Potential roles of international partners, regulatory issues and potential improvements of maritime domain awareness will also be discussed.
Speakers include a broad variety of guests from regional and international navies, government agencies, international organisations, academia and the maritime industry. Further information about the agenda and the various topics can be found on the conference website. Registration for the Global Maritime Security Conference is free of charge, but attendees should note the requirements for a Nigerian visa (a link to the Visa on Arrival application process can also be found on the conference website).