USS Samuel B. Roberts (FFG 58) pulled into Lagos, Nigeria to conduct a series of military-to-military interactions, theater security cooperation engagements, and community relations projects, February 10, 2010.
While in port, crew members of the Roberts will host tours and a reception, as well as participate in meetings designed to further the maritime relationship between both nations' Navies. Commander Chuck Sellers, commanding officer of the Roberts, will meet with the Flag Officer Commanding, Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Lshaya Iko Ibrahim, and Flag Officer Commanding, Nigerian Naval Training Command, Rear Admiral Ekwere U. Ekwere.
"We are excited about coming to Lagos and operating with the Nigerian Naval professionals," said Sellers.
Roberts will provide military-to-military training in basic damage control, first aid, anti-terrorism force protection, non-lethal weapons, visual communications, and visit board, search, and seizure (VBSS). At-sea training between Roberts and the Nigerian Navy will be taking place, including divisionary tactics, visual communications, emissions control drills, VBSS and search and rescue training
Simultaneously, many sailors will be spending time participating in community relations projects aiding Lion's Village Orphanage, as well as donating to Project Handclasp hygiene and recreation. Furthermore, the crew will join in a soccer and a volleyball game against the Nigerian teams to build up relations, morale, and camaraderie.
Roberts, a guided missile Oliver Hazard Perry Class frigate, is home-ported in Naval Station Mayport, Florida, and is currently on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Sixth Fleet area of responsibility.