GOG Dangerous Hotspot For Seafarers – UNDP

As the activities of piracy continues to threaten maritime and economic activities at the Gulf of Guinea (GOG), the United Nation Development Project (UNDP) has described GOG as a ‘dangerous hotspot area for seafarers’.
UNDP said in spite of past activities by the Nigerian Navy to curb piracy at GOG, the area is still a death trap to sea going vessels.
The United Nation noted that piracy and maritime crimes had continued to pose serious threats to international trades, the safety of seafarers, and regional and global development.
UNDP, however, commended the Nigerian Navy and other international bodies for their efforts and visions in combating the menace of piracy in the GoG region.
UNDP Team leader on Governance, Peace and Security, Mathew Alao, stated this during the inauguration of piracy course on core principles and practice of combating piracy organised by MLAILPKC in Abuja.
The counter piracy project, being implemented by the centre, will assist the GOG countries to further strengthen their institutional effectiveness, inclusiveness, accountability, transparency and responsiveness, according to Alao.
“The project will contribute towards the attainment of the Sustainable Development Goal 16, which aims to promote peace and inclusive societies for sustainable development, provide access to justice for all, and build effective and accountable institutions at all levels,” he said.
Alao stated that the course would consolidate on the achievement of the 2021 maiden edition of anti piracy project implemented by MLAILPKC in collaboration with countries in the Gulf including, Nigeria.
Also Speaking, Mr Shinozawa Takayuki, a Charge d’ Affairs ad Interim of Japan to Nigeria, also commended the NIMASA for fighting against piracy in Gulf of Guinea.
“Countries such as UK and US are working together with the Nigerian government on security in the Gulf of Guinea.