LAGOS: Three Chinese warships have arrived in Nigeria on a port call, signaling the deepening naval cooperation between the two countries. This visit follows concerns expressed by US defense officials last year regarding China’s plans for a military base on the Atlantic coast of West Africa.
China has been a significant investor in Nigeria’s infrastructure projects, particularly in the development of the recently inaugurated Lekki deep-sea port near Lagos, the country’s economic hub. The Gulf of Guinea, a vital shipping route spanning over 5,700 kilometers (3,500 miles) from Senegal to Angola, has long been plagued by piracy, with Nigerian criminal groups responsible for most attacks on foreign vessels.
Chinese Escort Task Group 162 in Nigeria
The Chinese Escort Task Group 162, comprising three ships, arrived in Nigeria after providing escort services to a Chinese merchant vessel in the Gulf of Aden, according to the Nigerian navy. Commodore Ayo Vaughan, spokesman for the Nigerian navy, stated that the warships were on a port call after completing their task and were visiting to enhance diplomatic relations. The visit aims to strengthen ties between the naval forces of both countries.
Among the three ships, the destroyer Nanning has berthed in Lagos, and all three are scheduled to depart on Wednesday, as confirmed by the Chinese embassy in Nigeria.
Last year, General Stephen J. Townsend, commander of the US Africa Command, expressed concerns to Congress about the possibility of China establishing a naval base on Africa’s Atlantic coast. He emphasized the need to prevent or deter Chinese influence in the region. The United States has been a major supplier of arms to Nigeria, including aircraft used in the country’s protracted conflict against militant groups in the northeastern part of the country.
The visit of the Chinese warships to Nigeria highlights the growing naval cooperation between the two nations and underscores China’s expanding presence and interests in the Gulf of Guinea. It also reflects Nigeria’s pursuit of diplomatic relations and the strengthening of military ties with various global partners to address security challenges in the region.
