The ECOWAS Multinational Maritime Coordination Centre (MMCC) Zone F has hosted a two-day GRAND AFRICAN NEMO (GANO) 2026 Zonal Planning Conference (ZPC) to finalise preparations and strengthen coordination ahead of the upcoming exercise.
Held at the MMCC Zone F Headquarters, the conference brought together key maritime security stakeholders and representatives from participating countries to review operational plans, strengthen coordination mechanisms, and ensure a common understanding of the objectives, procedures, and execution of GANO 2026.
The first day of the conference, held on 8 September 2026, focused on detailed discussions on the operational concept, coordination procedures, participating assets, communication arrangements, and other critical aspects required for the successful conduct of the exercise. Participants also reviewed identified challenges and proposed measures to enhance interoperability, coordination, and operational effectiveness.
Day One concluded successfully with a renewed commitment from participating stakeholders to strengthen regional cooperation and collective efforts towards addressing maritime security challenges in the Gulf of Guinea.
The second and final day built on the outcomes of the first day, with participants addressing outstanding issues, refining operational arrangements, and consolidating key decisions and recommendations ahead of the exercise. Discussions also focused on the GANO 2026 zonal scenarios, ensuring that participating entities maintained a shared understanding of the exercise framework and their respective roles and responsibilities.
The successful conclusion of the Zonal Planning Conference marks an important milestone in preparations for GANO 2026 and demonstrates the continued commitment of participating states and maritime security stakeholders to effective regional collaboration.
Through initiatives such as GANO 2026, the MMCC Zone F continues to play a pivotal role in promoting regional coordination, operational interoperability, and collaborative efforts towards a safer and more secure maritime domain in the Gulf of Guinea
