The OPV ‘Relámpago’ makes a Stopover in Cotonou Port During the Navigation in African Waters

• As part of the Coordinated Maritime Presences initiative in West Africa and the Gulf of Guinea, the ‘Relámpago’ Offshore Patrol Vessel (OPV)has carried out operational, diplomatic, and camaraderie activities

Benin was the latest stop for the ‘Relámpago’ OPV, which is sailing along the West African coast and the Gulf of Guinea under the European Union's Coordinated Maritime Presences (CMP) initiative in West Africa and the Gulf of Guinea. In Cotonou, the vessel engaged in various operational activities focused on bilateral cooperation, as well as diplomatic and camaraderie events.

During this port visit, the ‘Relámpago’ OPV conducted a series of training exercises with units of the Benin Navy. Among the joint manoeuvres, Maritime Interdiction Operations (MIO) training stood out, with the goal of addressing maritime threats, as well as other activities in the underwater environment.

Onboard Receptions

While in Cotonou, the OPV 'Relámpago' welcomed aboard María Higón Velasco, the Chargé d'Affaires of the Spanish Embassy in Nigeria, and José María Ferré Trad, the Consul General of Spain in Lagos. The diplomats were given a tour of the vessel, familiarising themselves with her key operational areas.

In the framework of Defence Diplomacy Activities, the vessel hosted several local authorities for a formal protocol lunch. This allowed an opportunity for dialogue and closer engagement between the Spanish Diplomatic Corps delegation and the Mayor of Cotonou, the Chief of Police, and the Port Director.

Additionally, an official reception was held aboard the vessel, attended by local civil and military authorities, representatives from other countries, and Spanish diplomatic officials. The event was an excellent opportunity to strengthen the ties of friendship and cooperation between Spain and Benin, within the context of shared efforts for stability and security in the Gulf of Guinea.

Visit to ‘Mensajeros de la Paz’

During the stopover, the crew of the OPV ‘Relámpago’ also visited the ‘Mensajeros de la Paz’ centre in Cotonou, where they spent time with the children and staff. This visit allowed the sailors to experience firsthand the daily lives and living conditions of the children, who thrive in a safe and educational environment supported by the organisation.

In response to the visit by the Spanish sailors, the children at the centre had the opportunity to tour the ‘Relámpago’ vessel. For many, it was the first time they had stepped aboard a vessel, making it an unforgettable experience that highlighted the significance of the Spanish Navy’s presence in the region.

‘Mensajeros de la Paz’ centre in Cotonou, Benin, is involved in projects focused on the education and protection of vulnerable children. One of their key initiatives is the Alternative School of Peace, which offers accelerated education to children aged 10 to 17. Upon completion of the course, students receive a Primary Education Certificate, enabling them to continue with their professional education.

Coordinated Maritime Presences (CMP) of the European Union

The deployment of the OPV ‘Relámpago’ plays a pivotal role in strengthening the European Union's Coordinated Maritime Presences (CMP) initiative in the West African Coast and the Gulf of Guinea, as an effective tool to improve maritime security in the region and foster greater cooperation between the EU and the West and Central African states.