The Royal Fleet Auxiliary (RFA) vessel Lyme Bay recently arrived at Premier Port, Apapa Quays in Lagos, Nigeria, marking a significant step in the UK-Nigeria Security and Defence Partnership. This visit is part of a larger Defence Engagement programme aimed at enhancing regional maritime security across West Africa.
UK Deputy Defence Adviser to Nigeria, Commander Jonathan Howe, highlighted the UK’s dedication to supporting Nigeria in countering maritime threats like piracy and violent extremism. Captain James Wingrove, Commanding Officer of *Lyme Bay*, noted that the vessel’s crew and UK Royal Marines will conduct interoperability exercises and training with the Nigerian Navy.
The deployment includes ship tours, capability displays, and training sessions to enhance operational skills and collaboration between UK and Nigerian forces. Additionally, Lyme Bay will join a multinational maritime security exercise with naval forces from Nigeria, Spain, France, Portugal, and Italy off Nigeria’s coast.
The partnership reflects a commitment to security cooperation across defence, cyber, counter-terrorism, and other security areas, reinforcing historical ties and shared values between the UK and Nigeria.
