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European Union Ambassador to Nigeria and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), Jacek Jankowski, welcomed CDR Pasquale Dell’Aquila, Commanding Officer of the Italian Navy Ocean Patrol Vessel ITS Cigala Fulgosi, along with his crew, for a high-level meeting in Freetown on 24 April 2026.
The meeting reflects the EU’s commitment to strengthening international efforts to secure the Gulf of Guinea. The ITS Cigala Fulgosi is currently deployed as part of Italy’s national counter-piracy operation, GABINIA, while also participating in the US AFRICOM-led multinational exercise, Obangame Express 2026.
The exercise brings together over 40 member states, including the Sierra Leone Navy, to combat illegal maritime activities and ensure safe navigation in the region.
During the visit, Ambassador Jankowski also toured the ITS Cigala Fulgosi at the Queen Elizabeth II Quay, observing the vessel’s operations firsthand.
The ambassador emphasized the importance of coordinated international presence at sea, noting that the EEAS Coordinated Maritime Presence operates in rotation with naval assets from France, Spain, and Portugal to provide continuous security coverage.
“The EU and its partners remain committed to enhancing the security, stability, and prosperity of the maritime environment,” Ambassador Jankowski said, highlighting the strategic value of multinational cooperation in the Gulf of Guinea.
The visit reflects the EU’s ongoing focus on supporting regional partners and strengthening collaboration to counter piracy, illegal fishing, and other maritime threats affecting international shipping lanes.
The source of this report is the official account of the European External Action Service (EEAS) and statements released by the EU Delegation.
