Author(s) :

DAVID AYO BABALOLA, ISAAC OZOEMENAM MBACHU, PhD mni.

Volume/Issue :

Abstract :

The Gulf of Guinea is a critical maritime domain that underpins the geopolitical and economic interests of Nigeria, Angola and Gabon. This study investigates the strategic importance of the Gulf for Nigeria by comparing its maritime security challenges and responses with those of Angola and Gabon. It addresses how Nigeria’s geographic and economic profile contrasts with its counterparts, the distinct threats it faces and how it can align national interests with regional cooperation. Drawing on Maritime Security Governance Theory, the study conceptualises maritime security as a decentralised but coordinated effort involving multiple actors at various levels. This framework provides analytical depth to explore Nigeria’s institutional strengths and constraints within a dynamic regional security environment. The research employs a qualitative documentary analysis, relying on secondary sources, including policy documents, academic publications and maritime security reports. It examines key threats such as piracy, illegal fishing, oil theft and smuggling, and evaluates state responses across the three countries. Findings reveal that Angola and Gabon have effectively utilised international partnerships, particularly with AFRICOM, to enhance maritime governance. Nigeria’s potential, however, remains limited by policy incoherence, resource misallocation and inter-agency rivalry. Yet its strategic location and economic scale position it as a natural regional leader. The study recommends a comprehensive approach for Nigeria that balances sovereignty with multilateral engagement, invests in institutional reforms and leverages civil society and private sector support. These insights are vital for policymakers aiming to strengthen Nigeria’s leadership and promote sustainable maritime security in the Gulf of Guinea.

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