Marine Security Risk Management in High-Risk Zones: Lessons from West African LNG Terminals

• Author(s): Ayomipo Ewuola
• Paper ID: 1708923
• Page: 420-433
• Published Date: 30-06-2021
• Published In: Iconic Research And Engineering Journals
• Publisher: IRE Journals
• e-ISSN: 2456-8880
• Volume/Issue: Volume 4 Issue 12 June-2021

Abstract

Marine security risk management in high-risk zones is critical for safeguarding vital energy infrastructure, particularly in regions like West Africa, where Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) terminals face complex and evolving threats. This abstract presents an overview of marine security challenges associated with LNG terminals in West African high-risk maritime zones and distills lessons learned from recent security incidents and mitigation strategies. West African coastal waters are characterized by a heightened risk environment due to piracy, armed robbery at sea, smuggling, and maritime terrorism. LNG terminals, as strategic energy assets, are attractive targets for criminal and militant groups seeking to disrupt energy supply chains and extract economic or political leverage. The unique vulnerabilities of LNG terminals such as their fixed location, dependence on maritime logistics, and proximity to international shipping lanes require robust risk management approaches tailored to the maritime context. This study explores the framework for marine security risk management implemented at several West African LNG terminals, focusing on threat identification, risk assessment, security governance, and operational controls. Key elements include the integration of maritime domain awareness technologies, such as Automatic Identification Systems (AIS) and radar surveillance, coordinated security patrols, and collaboration with regional naval forces and international partners. The importance of stakeholder engagement spanning terminal operators, government agencies, private security firms, and local communities is underscored as a critical factor in sustaining security and resilience. Lessons from West African LNG terminals highlight the necessity of adaptive security strategies that combine technological innovation with intelligence-led operations and community cooperation. The challenges posed by jurisdictional complexities and resource constraints emphasize the need for comprehensive policy frameworks and capacity building at national and regional levels. The findings contribute to the broader discourse on marine security in high-risk zones by providing practical insights into effective risk mitigation tailored to energy infrastructure. These lessons offer valuable guidance for policymakers, industry stakeholders, and security practitioners seeking to protect critical maritime assets in similarly vulnerable regions worldwide.

Keywords

Marine security, Risk management, High-risk zones, West African, LNG terminals.

Citations

IRE Journals:
Ayomipo Ewuola "Marine Security Risk Management in High-Risk Zones: Lessons from West African LNG Terminals" Iconic Research And Engineering Journals Volume 4 Issue 12 2021 Page 420-433

IEEE:
Ayomipo Ewuola "Marine Security Risk Management in High-Risk Zones: Lessons from West African LNG Terminals" Iconic Research And Engineering Journals, 4(12)