The Spanish Naval warship Relámpago made a scheduled stopover at the Sekondi Naval Base in Ghana’s Western Region as part of broader efforts to strengthen maritime security and deepen cooperation between Ghana and Spain.

The visit, which took place on Tuesday, April 8, 2025, coincided with a courtesy call by the Spanish Ambassador to Ghana, Ángel Lossada, to the Western Regional Coordinating Council.

Ambassador Lossada underscored the importance of global cooperation in tackling pressing international challenges, especially in the area of security.

“We are neighbours. We share the same borders, the same problems. The world today is not a world of isolated states.

It is a globalized world where all countries must move together to address big issues—from security to climate change,” he stated.

“We must work together to create a world where we can live in peace. That’s our common interest. This military presence is for mutual cooperation—ensuring both Ghanaian and Spanish safety and security.”

The deployment of Relámpago forms part of Spain’s broader initiative to support maritime security in West Africa, particularly in the Gulf of Guinea.

The Spanish Navy has also deployed the patrol warship ESPS Meteoro in the region to complement these efforts.

Key objectives of the ship’s mission include:

Enhancing Maritime Security: Boosting surveillance and deterring piracy in the Gulf of Guinea.

Capacity Building: Providing technical assistance and training to strengthen the Ghana Navy’s operational capabilities.

Regional Collaboration: Promoting cooperation between Spanish and Ghanaian naval forces.

Petroleum Hub Security: Understanding the needs of the ongoing Petroleum Hub Project in Jomoro, especially in terms of security and surveillance.

As part of the visit, Ambassador Lossada, along with the ship's captain and some crew members, met with the Western Regional Minister,  Joseph Nelson.

The Ambassador reiterated Spain’s commitment to supporting Ghana’s security and development initiatives.

Minister Nelson expressed gratitude for the longstanding partnership between Ghana and Spain, particularly highlighting Spain’s support for the Western Region.

“The Western Region is appreciative of the benefits we have received over the years—from scholarships for students at Takoradi Technical University to naval cooperation and training for our upcoming Petroleum Hub,” he noted.

“With the Western Naval Command based here, maritime security is a top priority.

Spain’s continued support in this area is most welcome.”

The visiting delegation also paid a courtesy call on the Omanhene of the Essikado Traditional Area, Nana Kobina Nketsia V, at his palace.

The day’s engagements concluded with a guided tour of the Relámpago warship, which was attended by the Regional Minister and security officials.