Buhari Heads To Malabo To Tie Up Talks On Joint Maritime Policing

BEVERLY HILLS, March 13, (THEWILL) – President Muhammadu Buhari will travel to Malabo, on Monday, for talks with President Obiang Nguema Mbasogo, of Equatorial Guinea, on further measures to protect the people and resources of the Niger Delta and Gulf of Guinea.

The conclusion and signing of an agreement by Nigeria and Equatorial Guinea for the establishment of a combined maritime policing and security patrol committee is expected to be the major outcome of Buhari's talks with his host on Tuesday.

A statement by Femi Adesina, Special Adviser to the President, Media and Publicity reveals that both Presidents are also expected to discuss and agree on other collaborative measures to combat crimes such as piracy, crude oil theft, attacks on oil rigs, arms smuggling and human trafficking in the Gulf of Guinea.

“Both leaders will also confer on the rescheduling of the joint summit of the Economic Community of West African States and the Economic Community of Central African States on additional cooperative measures to curb terrorism and violent extremism in West and Central Africa,” the statement read.

“The summit was to have been hosted by Equatorial Guinea last year but was postponed because of Nigeria's general elections.

“In accordance with the main focus and agenda of the trip, President Buhari will be accompanied by the Minister of Defence, Brig.-Gen. Mansur Dan-Ali (rtd.), the National Security Adviser, Maj.-Gen. Babagana Monguno (rtd.) and other senior security officials.

Adesina explained that the trip was necessary “in continuation of the Federal Government's efforts to achieve greater security of lives, resources and investments in all parts of Nigeria and its sub-region” adding that the President is scheduled to return to Abuja on Tuesday.

Story by David Oputah