The Flag Officer Commanding (FOC) of the Western Naval Command (WNC), Rear Admiral MG Oamen, has paid a courtesy visit to the Director General of the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA), Professor Eghosa Osaghae, at the Institute’s Lagos headquarters, with a focus on enhancing collaboration in maritime security, foreign policy, and strategic research.
During the August 14, 2025 meeting, Rear Admiral Oamen underscored the Navy’s role in safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime domain, noting that naval operations are closely linked to the country’s foreign policy objectives. He stressed the importance of protecting maritime trade routes and promoting regional stability, particularly within the Gulf of Guinea.
Professor Osaghae commended the Nigerian Navy for its contributions to national security and emphasised the value of knowledge sharing, collaborative research, and strategic dialogue between the NIIA and the Navy. He said such cooperation was critical in addressing evolving maritime threats and shaping informed policy decisions.
Both sides explored potential areas of partnership, including academic research, policy development, and joint participation in regional maritime security forums. The visit ended with an exchange of souvenirs and a group photograph, signalling their shared commitment to strengthening institutional cooperation in the interest of national and regional security.