On January 15, 2020, maritime operators in Lagos called on Nigeria’s government agencies to strengthen waterway security after a sharp rise in sea piracy in 2019. They warned that unchecked piracy could harm the shipping industry and raise consumer costs.
Concerns Over Gulf of Guinea
Kunle Folarin, Chairman of the Port Consultative Forum (PCF), told Vanguard Maritime Report that piracy and armed robbery surged in the Gulf of Guinea and Nigeria’s Bight of Benin in 2019.
“This threatens our shipping business. Without action, international shipping cartels may impose surcharges on Nigeria-bound cargo,” Folarin said, noting that higher costs would pass to consumers.
Call for Enhanced Security
Folarin urged the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) and the Nigerian Navy to boost coastal surveillance. “They must ensure safe sea links to Nigeria’s harbors to protect trade and prevent price hikes,” he added, emphasizing the need for secure territorial waters.
Record Hijackings in 2019
Aminu Umar, former President of the Nigeria Shipowners Association, described 2019 as a dire year for maritime security. “Kidnappings and hijackings hit unprecedented levels, especially in the last quarter,” Umar said. He called the scale of attacks unmatched in global shipping history and urged law enforcement to prevent future incidents in 2020.
Navigation and Security Challenges
Umar highlighted dual challenges: navigational issues like channel safety and rising insecurity. “Nigeria’s waters faced severe threats in 2019, with frequent attacks exposing vulnerabilities,” he noted. Operators expect NIMASA and the Navy to address these issues to restore safe shipping routes.
Economic Impact on Trade
Rising piracy risks increasing shipping costs, as companies may add surcharges to cover losses. These costs trickle down to cargo owners and consumers, driving up prices for goods and services. Strengthening security could stabilize trade and support Nigeria’s economy in 2020.
