UK warship arrives in Nigeria to ‘improve maritime security’

HMS Trent, a UK Royal Navy warship, has berthed in Lagos to support Nigeria’s efforts in combatting crimes on the sea.

The warship arrived on Sunday.

The development would enable the Royal Navy to deliver capacity training and maritime support on tackling sea piracy and illegal trafficking.

Speaking on the deployment of the warship, Tim Langford, HMS Trent’s commanding officer, said the visit is 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.”

On his part, Jonny Baxter, UK deputy high commissioner in Lagos, said a secure environment will support trade, investments, 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.”

In 2021, the warship was in Lagos to “conduct maritime security patrols as well as support partner navies” in West Africa.