President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Monday commended the Nigerian Navy for its 70 years of service in safeguarding the nation’s maritime domain, describing the force as a critical pillar of Nigeria’s security and economic development.
The President made the remarks at the 2026 International Fleet Review held at the Eko Atlantic Waterfront in Lagos as part of activities marking the Nigerian Navy’s 70th anniversary. During the event, he commissioned three naval vessels — NNS Oloibiri, NNS Mambila and NNS Gurara.
President Tinubu praised the Navy’s achievements in combating piracy, crude oil theft, illegal fishing, maritime smuggling and other transnational crimes in the Gulf of Guinea, noting that its operations have contributed significantly to increased oil production, improved government revenue and enhanced investor confidence.
He also commended the Navy’s role in counterterrorism and counterinsurgency operations across the country, particularly the contributions of its Special Boat Service and the recently inducted Nigerian Navy Marines.
“Beyond the maritime domain, I also commend the Nigerian Navy for its contributions to counterterrorism and counterinsurgency operations across the country. The courage and professionalism demonstrated by the Special Boat Service in executing complex missions are truly commendable,” the President said.
Tinubu noted that the Navy has evolved into a formidable maritime force whose operations have strengthened security within Nigeria’s territorial waters and contributed to regional stability.
He highlighted the strategic importance of Nigeria’s maritime domain, describing it as a vital source of foreign exchange and a key route for global trade. According to him, the Navy’s effective deployment of surveillance systems, rapid response mechanisms and enforcement operations has helped eradicate piracy in Nigerian waters and significantly reduced maritime crimes.
The President reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening the Navy through continued investments in modern equipment, advanced technology, personnel welfare, training and capacity development.
He also thanked foreign naval delegations and partner nations that attended the International Fleet Review, describing their presence as a reflection of growing international cooperation in promoting maritime security.
Speaking at the event, Chief of Naval Staff, Idi Abbas, attributed the Navy’s recent successes to strategic investments, government support and strong leadership.
He said the acquisition of modern platforms, enhanced surveillance capabilities and improved collaboration among security agencies had strengthened Nigeria’s maritime security architecture and boosted efforts against piracy, oil theft, illegal fishing and sea robbery.
Vice Admiral Abbas pledged the continued loyalty of officers and ratings to the Constitution and the nation, assuring Nigerians that the Navy would remain vigilant in protecting the country’s maritime interests.
The event was attended by several dignitaries, including Gbenga Daniel, who represented the Senate President; Babajide Sanwo-Olu; AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq; National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu; Minister of Defence Christopher Musa; and Inspector-General of Police Tunji Disu.
Chiefs of Naval Staff from several Gulf of Guinea countries, including Ghana, Benin, Liberia, Sierra Leone and Guinea, as well as delegations from Europe and former Nigerian service chiefs, also attended the ceremony.
