The Nigerian Navy and the Dangote Group have agreed to deepen security cooperation around the Dangote Petroleum Refinery, its Single Point Mooring (SPM) and other strategic facilities in the Ibeju-Lekki area of Lagos.
The decision was reached during a meeting between the Flag Officer Commanding, Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral AA Mustapha, and the Executive Director, Commercial, Dangote Group, Hajiya Fatima Dangote, at the refinery on Wednesday.
The discussions centred on improving the protection of critical infrastructure within the Lekki Free Zone, surrounding waterways and other areas under the Western Naval Command.
Rear Admiral Mustapha reaffirmed the Navy’s commitment to safeguarding strategic economic assets in the region. He also said the service was working to fast-track approvals required for the loading and discharge of petroleum products at the Dangote SPM.
He, however, raised concerns about delays linked to some clearing agents, noting that such lapses could disrupt smooth operations at the facility.
As part of efforts to strengthen surveillance, the Navy is expected to maintain ship patrols around the SPM while also deploying technologies including surveillance cameras, drones and communication jammers to improve maritime security and early-warning capabilities.
The meeting further examined renovation work at the temporary Forward Operating Base Lekki located within the Dangote Free Zone.
Fatima Dangote praised the Western Naval Command for its continued role in protecting the refinery and other important assets in the area.
She said the Dangote Group would continue supporting naval operations and work towards completing the renovation of facilities used by the Forward Operating Base.
According to her, improved infrastructure at the base would enhance the welfare of naval personnel and strengthen their ability to carry out security operations effectively.
Both sides stressed that stronger collaboration between security agencies and private businesses was necessary to protect critical infrastructure, support uninterrupted operations and promote economic activity around the Lekki axis.
