Tinubu Inaugurates Naval Ships, Task Force to Boost Maritime Security

President Bola Tinubu has pledged to strengthen Nigeria's maritime security architecture, marking the occasion by inaugurating three new naval vessels and a Combined Maritime Task Force for the Gulf of Guinea. The event, held in Lagos as part of the Nigerian Navy's Platinum Jubilee, highlighted the force's 70-year journey.

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We’ll Strengthen Nigeria’s Maritime Security Architecture

Tinubu described the Navy's 70th anniversary as a significant milestone, recognizing its transformation from a modest service into one of Africa's most formidable naval powers. He noted the Navy's parallel growth with the nation's sovereignty, emphasizing its role as a critical pillar for national security, economic prosperity, and regional stability.

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the Nigerian Navy has evolved alongside the nation’s sovereignty, growing from its origins in 1956 into a modern and sophisticated force that serves as a critical pillar of national security, economic prosperity and regional stability.

The newly acquired vessels, NNS Oloibiri, NNS Mambila, and NNS Gurara, underscore the administration's commitment to recapitalizing the Navy and fostering indigenous shipbuilding. Tinubu praised the Navy's operational excellence and professionalism, acknowledging its continental leadership and strategic growth.

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the move reflects his administration’s unwavering commitment to the recapitalisation of the Nigerian Navy, promotion of indigenous shipbuilding capacity and provision of strategic support required for a responsive and capable maritime force.

He lauded the Navy for its success in eradicating piracy and significantly curtailing crude oil theft and related maritime crimes. These achievements, he stated, have not only improved coastal security but also boosted oil production and overall economic growth. Tinubu urged officers to maintain high standards and adapt to evolving security threats.

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the service had successfully eradicated piracy in Nigerian waters and significantly curtailed crude oil theft and related maritime crimes through enhanced surveillance, rapid response mechanisms and robust enforcement operations.