Minister of Defence General Christopher Musa (Rtd) has pledged continued government investment in the Nigerian Navy’s resources, capabilities, and enabling environment, committing to building a technologically advanced, interconnected, and globally respected naval force capable of safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime interests and contributing to security across the Gulf of Guinea and beyond.

Speaking as Special Guest of Honour at the Nigerian Navy’s 70th Anniversary Ceremonial Sunset Dinner and Awards Night, the grand finale of a week of celebrations marking the service’s seven decades of existence, Musa said the future of naval operations depended on advanced surveillance systems, intelligence capabilities, unmanned technologies, cyber defence tools, and data-driven operational platforms.

He described the Navy as a model of professionalism, organizational excellence, discipline, and resilience, and said its operations had significantly supported Nigeria’s blue economy by protecting strategic sea lanes, offshore oil and gas infrastructure, and other critical maritime assets. He noted that the service remained at the forefront of efforts to combat piracy, crude oil theft, illegal fishing, and other maritime crimes.

He said the Navy’s contributions extended beyond maritime security to include active participation in internal security operations and support for sister services and security agencies, playing a vital role in maintaining the peace and stability necessary for economic growth. He also acknowledged the contributions of international partners toward maritime security and stability in the region.

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