By Micah Jonah
January 20, 2026
The Flag Officer Commanding (FOC) Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral Abdullahi Mustapha, has paid a courtesy visit to the President and Chief Executive Officer of the Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, at the company’s corporate headquarters in Lagos, as part of efforts to strengthen collaboration between the Nigerian Navy and the private sector.
The visit, which took place on Monday, January 19, 2025, aligns with the Nigerian Navy’s strategic drive to deepen partnerships with key industry players in support of maritime security and national economic development. Rear Admiral Mustapha described the Dangote Group as a critical stakeholder in Nigeria’s refinery, shipping, and maritime value chain, noting that the Dangote Refinery, located within the Western Naval Command’s Area of Responsibility, is a strategic national asset that requires collective protection.
He reaffirmed the Navy’s commitment, under the leadership of the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, to enhanced cooperation, intelligence sharing, and operational support aimed at ensuring safe movement of goods and personnel, while tackling piracy, crude oil theft, smuggling, and other maritime crimes.
In his response, Alhaji Aliko Dangote commended the Nigerian Navy for its sustained efforts in securing Nigeria’s coastal and offshore corridors, describing maritime safety as fundamental to industrial growth and national prosperity. He expressed the Dangote Group’s willingness to support initiatives which promote capacity building, improved security coordination, and sustainable development.
Both parties also explored areas of strategic partnership focused on reinforcing a secure maritime environment capable of supporting Nigeria’s expanding industrial and trade ambitions.
