# Chinese navy flotilla visits Nigeria

- Link: https://www.military.africa/2023/07/chinese-navy-flotilla-visits-nigeria/
- Published: 2023-07-03T08:41:45+01:00
- Author: Ekene Lionel

A naval fleet from China’s People’s Liberation Army (PLA) has made a significant
voyage to Nigeria, marking a rare visit by the Chinese military to Africa’s Atlantic
coast. Led by the destroyer Nanning, the fleet arrived on Sunday, highlighting China’s
ongoing efforts to expand its influence in the region.

The Chinese ambassador to Nigeria hailed this five-day visit as a milestone in the
bilateral relationship between the two countries. In a statement issued by the Chinese
embassy on Monday, the Nigerian navy also expressed its willingness to collaborate
with China to address maritime security threats and maintain stability in the Gulf
of Guinea.

The Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr Chi Chun, said the visit of the delegation
from China “is to deepen the relationship between the two countries and also seek
improved cooperation with each other.

“This visit demonstrates the harmony and symphony between Nigeria and China,” he
said.

The Chinese Navy Escort Task Group (ETG) 162, comprising the PLA destroyer Nanning,
PLA frigate Sanya, and supply ship Weishanhu, arrived in Nigeria to enhance the 
cooperation and strengthen the ties between the two nations. This visit holds strategic
significance for both parties.

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Nanning (162) is a 7,500 ton Type 052DL destroyer of the People’s Liberation Army
Navy, the ship was launched on 23 February 2019 at the Jiangnan Shipyard in Shanghai,
and commissioned on 12 April 2021.

Nanning in March carried out a joint naval exercise with Iranian and Russian warships
in the Gulf of Oman, and then returned to its escort mission in the Gulf of Aden
and waters off Somalia before heading to Nigeria.

Sanya (574) is a Type 054A frigate of the People’s Liberation Army Navy. She was
commissioned on 30 November 2012. In June, Sanya was part of the 43rd Chinese naval
escort taskforce that docked in Abidjan, Cote d’Ivoire’s economic powerhouse, for
a four-day visit aimed at promoting goodwill.

China has been [actively seeking to expand its presence](https://www.military.africa/2022/03/china-is-seeking-a-naval-base-in-west-africa-africom/)
in Africa, particularly in terms of trade, investment, and infrastructure development.
The visit of the Chinese naval fleet to Nigeria demonstrates Beijing’s commitment
to deepening its engagement with African countries, even extending its military 
cooperation.

China’s efforts to increase its economic and military footprint in Africa appear
to be gaining momentum as Beijing intends to establish a military base in West Africa
to counter the United States presence.

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The Gulf of Guinea, a region known for its abundant oil resources, has been grappling
with piracy, illegal fishing, and other maritime security challenges. Nigeria, being
a prominent country in the region, has been at the forefront of efforts to combat
these threats. By collaborating with China, Nigeria aims to bolster its maritime
security capabilities and benefit from China’s expertise in naval operations.

Recent U.S. intelligence reports suggest China intends to establish its first permanent
military presence on the Atlantic Ocean in Equatorial Guinea. US defence officials
believe the Chinese want a base on the Atlantic coast where they can replenish naval
combat units with fuel, ammunition, and consumables as well as create a facility
where they can repair warships. Nevertheless, the [US is determined to stop China’s naval expansion drive](https://www.military.africa/2022/08/us-determined-to-stop-chinas-new-base-in-africa/).

During the visit, the Chinese and Nigerian navies may hold a series of joint exercises
and training drills, including anti-piracy drills and search and rescue exercises.
The two sides also held talks on maritime security cooperation and exchanged views
on regional security issues.

“During their period of stay, our men will be interacting, we will be having some
sporting activities, exchange of mementos and gifts.” Chun said.

This visit also provides an opportunity for both countries to strengthen their diplomatic
ties and explore avenues for future collaboration. The Chinese fleet’s presence 
in Nigeria sends a clear message of China’s intent to play a more active role in
ensuring regional stability and security.

As the Chinese naval fleet concludes its visit to Nigeria after five days, the positive
exchanges and discussions between the two nations pave the way for enhanced cooperation
in various fields. The visit further underscores China’s growing influence and engagement
in Africa’s Atlantic region, setting the stage for deeper collaboration between 
China and Nigeria in the future.

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The Chinese navy’s visit to Nigeria also comes at a time when the Gulf of Guinea
is fighting maritime security threats, including piracy, armed robbery at sea, and
illegal oil bunkering. The Chinese navy’s presence in the region is seen as a way
to help Nigeria and other countries in the region to address these threats.

The visit of the Chinese naval fleet to Nigeria is a positive development for the
bilateral relationship between the two countries. It is a sign of China’s growing
commitment to Africa and its willingness to cooperate with African countries on 
security issues. The visit is also a boost for the Nigerian navy, which is facing
growing maritime security threats. The joint exercises and training drills between
the two navies will help to improve the Nigerian navy’s capabilities and its ability
to respond to these threats.

Similarly, last month a [Spanish warship named ESPS Audaz docked in Lagos](https://www.military.africa/2023/05/spanish-warship-in-nigeria-for-exercise/)
to reinforce the military ties between Nigeria and Spain and deliver defence diplomacy.

Audaz, constructed by [Navantia](https://www.military.africa/2022/10/morocco-secures-92-million-loan-for-spanish-navantia-avante-1400-opv/),
is one of the four OPVs (Offshore Patrol Vessels) built for the Spanish Navy under
the extension of “1st series navy ships”.

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