Before you decide on your next move concerning the maritime industry, you should work with some recent facts to help guide your decision. Here’s an update on maritime piracy statistics as of February 24, 2024:
Global Trends:
- Overall decrease: The International Maritime Bureau (IMB) reports a decrease in global piracy incidents in 2023 compared to 2022.
- 120 recorded incidents in 2023 vs. 115 in 2022.
- 132 incidents in 2021.
- This represents a 22% decline from 2021 and a 70% reduction from the peak in 2010 (around 445 incidents).
- Shifting hotspots: While the overall number of incidents is declining, certain regions remain concerning:
- Gulf of Guinea: Increased piracy activity, with 59 incidents in 2023 (compared to 38 in 2022).
- Singapore Strait: Significant rise, with 39 incidents in 2023 (compared to 31 in 2022).
- Somali waters: Remain relatively stable, with 2 incidents in 2023 and 3 in 2022.
Specifics on Nigeria:
- Positive developments:
- Reduced piracy: Only 1 incident in Nigerian waters reported in the first nine months of 2023.
- Deep Blue Project: Initiative contributing to improved security.
- Challenges remain:
- Kidnapping at sea: All 2021 incidents in Nigeria involved kidnappings at anchorages.
- Illegal fishing: IUU fishing poses security and environmental concerns.
- Resource limitations: Nigerian Navy faces challenges with resources and manpower.
With the current economic hardship in Nigeria, the security of the maritime industry in Nigeria may likely going to deteriorate. Hopefully the current administration will be able to arrest the situation before it impedes investments in the country.
However, if your vessel is calling on Nigeria waters, Ocean Guard Maritime Logistics Ltd is always at your service to ensure you have complete peace of mind.
Reference: The International Maritime Bureau