Eshioromeh Sebastian
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has commended the Nigerian Navy for its seven decades of service in safeguarding the nation’s maritime domain, stating that the Service’s operations have significantly boosted oil production and strengthened investor confidence.
President Tinubu spoke on Monday at the 2026 International Fleet Review held at the Eko Atlantic Waterfront, Lagos, as part of events marking the Navy’s 70th anniversary. He was the reviewing officer at the event.
The President specifically praised the Navy’s sustained efforts against crude oil theft and other maritime crimes, noting that these operations have directly improved national revenue and enhanced security in the Gulf of Guinea.
“Through the effective integration of surveillance systems, rapid response mechanisms and robust enforcement operations, you have successfully eradicated piracy in our waters and significantly curtailed crude oil theft and associated maritime crimes,” Mr. Tinubu said.
“These achievements have enhanced the security of our littoral communities and contributed to increased oil production, thereby supporting national economic growth.”
The President also commissioned three new Nigerian naval vessels: NNS Oloibiri, NNS Mambila, and NNS Gurara.
Beyond maritime security, Mr. Tinubu lauded the Navy’s contributions to counterterrorism and counterinsurgency operations across the country, particularly praising the Special Boat Service for its professionalism in complex missions.
“The Nigerian Navy has become an indispensable pillar of both national and regional security,” the President said.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening the Navy’s operational capabilities through continued investment in modern platforms, advanced technology, and personnel welfare.
In his remarks, the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, said the Navy’s recent successes were made possible by strategic investments and policy support from the President.
Vice Admiral Abbas noted that the acquisition of modern platforms and enhanced surveillance capabilities had significantly strengthened Nigeria’s maritime security architecture.
He pledged that the Service would remain vigilant and resolute in defending the nation’s maritime domain against all threats.
Dignitaries at the event included Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Kwara State Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq; Minister of Defence, Gen. Christopher Musa (rtd); the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede; and the Inspector General of Police, Tunji Disu.
Also present were naval chiefs from Gulf of Guinea countries including Côte d’Ivoire, Ghana, Benin, Liberia, Sierra Leone, and Guinea, as well as delegations from European nations.
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