Tinubu reaffirms support for Navy, commissions three new vessels

Crime Diary

LAGOS, Nigeria (NPA) — President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening the Nigerian Navy through sustained recapitalisation and support for indigenous shipbuilding.

Tinubu made the pledge on Monday while inaugurating three new naval vessels at the International Fleet Review held at the Eko Atlantic Waterfront, Lagos, to commemorate the Nigerian Navy’s 70th anniversary.

The President said the addition of the vessels to the nation’s fleet was part of ongoing efforts to enhance maritime security and improve operational effectiveness.

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“Our unwavering commitment to the recapitalisation of the Nigerian Navy is further demonstrated today through the commissioning of three new vessels.

“As we continue to promote indigenous shipbuilding capacity and provide the necessary strategic support for a responsive and capable naval force, the nation looks forward to even greater strides in ensuring maritime security,” he said.

Tinubu congratulated the Navy on its seven decades of service, describing it as one of Africa’s most formidable maritime forces.

According to him, the Navy has evolved from a colonial marine department established in 1956 into a modern and sophisticated force that contributes significantly to national security and economic prosperity.

He noted that the International Fleet Review and the participation of foreign partners reflected global recognition of the Navy’s growing role in promoting maritime security and international cooperation.

The President commended naval officers and ratings for their professionalism and urged them to continue strengthening their operational capabilities.

Tinubu described Nigeria’s maritime domain as a critical pillar of the economy, serving as a major source of foreign exchange earnings and supporting global trade activities.

He praised the Navy for safeguarding the nation’s waters through effective surveillance, rapid response mechanisms and robust enforcement operations.

According to him, the service has successfully eradicated piracy in Nigerian waters and significantly reduced crude oil theft and other maritime crimes.

“These achievements have enhanced the security of our littoral communities and contributed to increased oil production, thereby supporting national economic growth,” he said.

The President also lauded the Navy’s contributions to counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency operations across the country, particularly the roles of the Special Boat Service and the recently inducted Nigerian Navy Marines.

He described the Navy as an indispensable pillar of national and regional security.

Tinubu expressed appreciation to international partners for supporting security efforts in the Gulf of Guinea and commended the inauguration of the Combined Maritime Task Force.

He said the initiative would strengthen multinational cooperation and enhance operational capacity in securing the shared maritime domain.

The President specifically commended Côte d’Ivoire, The Gambia, Ghana, Liberia and Sierra Leone for their contributions toward the successful establishment of the initiative.

He expressed confidence that the Nigerian Navy would sustain its operational excellence and continue supporting the development of the nation’s blue economy.

Earlier, the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Adm. Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, said the Navy would continue to work tirelessly to secure Nigeria’s maritime territory and protect national interests.

The event was attended by service chiefs, the Minister of Defence, retired Gen. Christopher Musa, the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, top government officials and members of the diplomatic corps, among others. (NAN)