This paper presents a historical investigation of maritime insecurity in the Gulf of Guinea. It traces the roots of maritime trade, the emergence of the region, and how it has evolved over the years. It examines the various forms of Maritime insecurity that have occurred in the maritime space. However, there is a paucity of data on the historical development of maritime insecurity in the Gulf of Guinea, which has affected the safety of people’s livelihoods, commercial trading activities, and the coastal environment. The increasing severity of these criminal activities has greatly affected Maritime trade and safety in the Gulf of Guinea. The study concludes by stressing the importance of addressing maritime security issues in the Gulf of Guinea for the region’s safety, economic development, and commercial network and trading activities. It provides valuable insights into the complex challenge of maritime insecurity. It underscores the necessity of collective effort and cooperation at various levels in overcoming this impediment to the region’s growth.