Harboursandport.com: Lagos, Nigeria — August 6, 2025: Rear Admiral Michael Gregory Oamen, Flag Officer Commanding, FOC of the Western Naval Command, has called for Nigeria’s immediate removal from the War Risk Insurance, WRI list, describing the continued classification of the country as a high-risk maritime zone as “unjust” and “unsubstantiated.”
Speaking during a courtesy visit by executives of the Maritime Reporters Association of Nigeria, MARAN and members of the planning committee for the upcoming MARAN Annual Maritime Lecture, MAMAL 2025, Rear Admiral Oamen emphasized that Nigeria has maintained piracy-free waters for over three years, particularly in the Gulf of Guinea.
“There is absolutely no reason why Nigeria should still be on any war risk list. For the past three to four years, there has been no piracy incident in our waters. This continued classification is unjustifiable,” he stated.
The Naval Chief credited the country’s improved maritime safety to enhanced naval operations, advanced surveillance systems such as Falcon Eye, and strategic partnerships with regional navies. He urged MARAN to escalate the issue by engaging the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs and other key agencies, including the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, NIMASA, the Nigerian Ports Authority, NPA, and the Nigerian Shippers’ Council, NSC.
MARAN President, Mr. Godfrey Bivbere, explained that the visit was part of preparations for MAMAL 2025, scheduled for August 27 at Four Points by Sheraton, Lagos. This year’s lecture will focus on the theme: “Addressing the Burden of War Risk Insurance on Nigerian Maritime Trade.”
Bivbere noted that despite Nigeria’s improved maritime security, international shipping companies and insurers continue to impose high premiums on vessels calling at Nigerian ports—costs that ultimately affect importers and consumers.
“We are not at war. Nigerian waters have remained safe for over three years, yet shipping companies and insurers continue to impose high premiums that affect all aspects of the economy,” he said.
He added that MARAN plans to write to the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and engage directly with insurance firms to demand Nigeria’s removal from the WRI list. The association also intends to launch a maritime industry compendium in September, featuring contributions from key agencies including the Navy, NIMASA, and the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy.
Navy Pledges Support
Rear Admiral Oamen pledged the Navy’s full participation in MAMAL 2025 and confirmed that the command will present a paper at the event detailing its efforts to secure Nigeria’s maritime domain.
“Rest assured, the Navy will participate fully. We will also use the opportunity to share the efforts and investments made to secure our maritime environment,” he said.
He commended MARAN for its role in public enlightenment and described the media as a vital partner in national security. He also welcomed the idea of allowing maritime journalists to observe naval operations during sea exercises in the Gulf of Guinea.
The visit concluded with both parties reaffirming their commitment to strengthening collaboration and advocating for reforms that will enhance Nigeria’s maritime sector.
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