The Nigerian Navy and Canadian Navy have disclosed that they would collaborate to further strengthen the cordial bond between them as they commemorate 60 years of bilateral diplomatic relations.

The acting High Commissioner to Canada, Kelvin Tokar, said Nigeria and Canada had lots of cordial connections between them and those connections had continued to grow over time.

Tokar made this known during the visit of Her Majesty Canadian Ship (HMCS) GOOSE BAY and HMCS Moncton to the Western Naval Command, Apapa, Lagos State.

He said: “This auspicious visit is timely because it coincides with the 60th anniversary of bilateral diplomatic relations between Canada and Nigeria which dates back to 1962 when they were first established.

“The ships are in the region to participate in exercise Obangame Express, where they will be working alongside the Nigerian Navy as well as other regional and international naval partners.

“The goal of the exercise is to strengthen cooperation to improve maritime safety and security in the Gulf of Guinea where Nigeria plays a leadership role.”

Tokar said that the visits would afford them the opportunity of speaking with the local officials and interact with the communities of some most important coastal cities in West Africa.

He said: “These visits are really a great opportunity to learn from one another and to strengthen our bond so that we can work together to address shared challenges in order to achieve results.

“As two former British colonies, we have a lot in common and our bilateral relationship is growing stronger year by year.

“In addition, Canada has a thriving Nigerian community and many members of the Canadian Armed Forces are of Nigerian decent.”

Also, the Flag Officer Commanding (FOC) Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral Yakubu Wambai, said both countries had participated in many foreign courses and peacekeeping missions together.

He said: “This has enhanced the relationship between the two states and we hope that someday, our own fleet will be able to pay similar port calls to Canada to foster and cement the existing relationship.” 

Wambai stated further that there had been a decrease in maritime crimes in the Gulf of Guinea in the last twelve months.

He said: “This can be attributed to the existing partnership between the Gulf of Guinea coastal states and foreign partners like you that come in, exercise, and patrol our waters.

“Your experience and strategic location at the Atlantic to the Pacific Ocean and northwards to the Arctic Ocean will be of immense benefit to us.”