President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s maritime security architecture with the inauguration of three new naval vessels and a Combined Maritime Task Force for the Gulf of Guinea.
The President inaugurated NNS Oloibiri, NNS Mambila and NNS Gurara at the Eko Atlantic Waterfront in Lagos on Monday as part of activities marking the Platinum Jubilee of the Nigerian Navy and the commencement of the 2026 Navy International Fleet Review.
Tinubu described the Navy’s 70th anniversary as a landmark achievement that reflects its transformation from a modest maritime force into one of Africa’s leading naval institutions.
He said the Nigerian Navy has evolved alongside the country’s sovereignty, growing into a modern force that plays a vital role in national security, economic prosperity and regional stability.
The President noted that the service’s emergence as one of Africa’s foremost naval forces was a testament to seven decades of professionalism, operational excellence and strategic development.
According to him, the acquisition of the three vessels demonstrates his administration’s determination to strengthen the Navy through recapitalisation, support for indigenous shipbuilding and enhanced operational capability.
Tinubu also praised the Navy for its efforts in securing Nigeria’s maritime domain, stating that it has successfully eliminated piracy in Nigerian waters and significantly reduced crude oil theft and other maritime crimes.
He said the achievements have improved the safety of coastal communities while contributing to increased oil production and economic growth.
The President further commended the Navy’s contribution to counterterrorism and counterinsurgency operations across the country, particularly through the activities of its Special Boat Service and recently deployed Marines.
“The Nigerian Navy has become an indispensable pillar of both national and regional security,” he said.
Tinubu also inaugurated the Gulf of Guinea Combined Maritime Task Force, describing it as a major step towards strengthening regional cooperation against piracy, illegal fishing, crude oil theft and other transnational maritime crimes.
He applauded Côte d’Ivoire, The Gambia, Ghana, Liberia and Sierra Leone for their contributions to the initiative and expressed optimism that deeper collaboration would enhance maritime security across the region.
Earlier, the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, attributed recent successes of the Navy to sustained investments, policy support and strong leadership.
He said modern platforms, improved surveillance systems and stronger inter-agency collaboration have enhanced the Navy’s capacity to combat maritime crimes within the Gulf of Guinea.
Abbas reaffirmed the loyalty of officers and ratings to the Constitution and pledged that the Navy would remain resolute in defending Nigeria’s maritime domain against all threats.
Deji Elumoye
