The Nigerian Navy is set to host the ORBANGAME Express 2025, a key multinational maritime exercise focused on combating small arms trafficking and bolstering maritime security in the Gulf of Guinea (GoG). The event was officially launched aboard Nigerian Navy Ship KADA by Rear Adm. Michael Oamen, Flag Officer Commanding Western Naval Command, on behalf of the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Adm. Emmanuel Ogalla.
Running from May 9 to 13, the exercise will spotlight anti-smuggling and narcotics operations as central pillars of Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to secure its waters. To this end, the Nigerian Navy will deploy six ships, two helicopters, various maritime domain awareness assets, and personnel from the Special Boat Service (SBS).
Oamen emphasised that ORBANGAME Express brings together partners from the Gulf of Guinea, the Americas, and Europe to assess Nigeria’s capacity for joint maritime operations. He highlighted the exercise’s success in enhancing Nigeria’s maritime security framework and contributing to regional stability over the years.
Initiated in 2010 by the U.S. Navy, ORBANGAME Express has matured into an influential annual event, welcoming esteemed naval forces from around the world. This year, Spain’s warship ESPS RELAMPAGO joins the lineup, underscoring the broad international cooperation involved.
The Nigerian naval chief expressed optimism that the exercise would reinforce operational readiness and deepen international collaboration, ultimately strengthening collective efforts against maritime crimes in the region. He also noted that Nigeria’s waters have seen marked improvements—evidenced by the International Maritime Bureau’s 2022 decision to remove Nigeria from its piracy-prone list—thanks to consistent naval patrols and regional maritime stakeholder support.
Oamen expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for his steadfast backing, as well as to the U.S. and Spain’s navies for their ongoing commitment and vital contributions. As the exercise unfolds, Nigeria aims to further fortify its maritime resilience and foster stronger international partnerships to protect its waters and promote regional stability.
