The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) recently wrapped up its 2025 Visit, Board, Search and Seizure (VBSS) Course at the School of Maritime Operations in Nutekpor. The training, designed to enhance maritime security, drew participants from various countries, highlighting the global effort to combat maritime threats.
Lieutenant Commander (Rtd) Chinazo Bertrand Chikeziri praised the participants, stressing the importance of knowledge sharing in improving maritime security. “By pooling our expertise and experiences, we can create a safer and more secure maritime environment,” he said. The Guest of Honour, Naval Captain Theophilus Kafui Agbemabiese, echoed this sentiment, urging participants to build and maintain networks to facilitate cross-border collaboration.
The VBSS Course is part of the UNODC’s broader initiative to strengthen maritime law enforcement capabilities in West Africa, particularly in combating piracy, drug trafficking, and other transnational organized crimes. The training facility, supported by the Danish government, features a state-of-the-art “Ship-in-a-Box” project, enabling participants to simulate real-world scenarios and develop practical skills in maritime law enforcement.
Key Takeaways from the VBSS Course:
- Maritime Law Enforcement: Participants learned about the latest strategies and best practices in maritime law enforcement, including visit, board, search, and seizure techniques.
- International Collaboration: The course emphasized the importance of cross-border collaboration and knowledge sharing in combating maritime threats.
- Capacity Building: The training aimed to enhance the capabilities of maritime law enforcement agencies in West Africa, supporting regional efforts to promote maritime security.
The conclusion of the VBSS Course marks a significant milestone in the region’s efforts to enhance maritime security. As participants return to their respective countries, they will apply their newfound knowledge and skills to tackle the complex challenges facing the maritime domain. By fostering international collaboration and capacity building, the UNODC’s VBSS Course has taken a crucial step towards creating a safer and more secure maritime environment.
Ruth Abla ADJORLOLO
