Nigeria Spearheads Gulf of Guinea Security with New Maritime Task Force Base

According to Premium Times reporting on February 16, 2026, the Federal Government of Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to regional stability by pledging extensive infrastructural and operational assets for the Combined Maritime Task Force headquarters. Representing President Bola Tinubu at the 39th African Union Assembly, Vice President Kashim Shettima announced that the nation would provide dedicated office complexes, naval vessels, and helicopters to bolster the force’s capacity. This strategic move aims to centralize efforts in combating piracy and transnational crimes within the Gulf of Guinea.
The initiative comes at a critical time as West African nations seek to internalize security solutions rather than relying on external interventions. Beyond the hardware, Nigeria is also offering temporary personnel and logistical expertise to ensure the task force hits the ground running. This hospitality highlights Nigeria’s aspiration to remain the continental leader in maritime security management while fostering a coordinated African response to mineral exploitation and debt distress.
The Guardian and Vanguard have also reported on this development, emphasizing the diplomatic weight of Nigeria hosting the headquarters. The Guardian noted that the move is part of a broader “push for a stronger, coordinated African response to security threats,” while Vanguard highlighted that “Nigeria’s provision of air and sea assets will significantly reduce response times to distress calls in the region.”
Echotitbits take: Nigeria’s decision to host and fully equip the Maritime Task Force HQ is a calculated move to secure its dominance in the Gulf of Guinea. By providing the “steel and the brick,” the government is ensuring it has a primary seat at the table in managing the region’s oil-rich waters. Watch for increased naval joint exercises between Nigeria and neighboring coastal states in the coming months.
Source: State House – https://statehouse.gov.ng/nigeria-calls-for-combined-maritime-task-force-for-the-gulf-of-guinea-at-au-summit-navy-to-provide-sea-lift-services/, February 16, 2026
Photo credit: State House