Sanwo-Olu salutes Nigerian Navy at 70th anniversary celebrations

Crime Diary, Politics

LAGOS, Nigeria (NPA) — Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has congratulated the Nigerian Navy on its 70th anniversary, describing the service as a vital pillar of national security and a key contributor to Nigeria’s economic stability.

Sanwo-Olu spoke during the Ceremonial Sunset, Dinner and Awards Night held at Naval Dockyard Limited, Victoria Island, Lagos, as part of activities marking the Nigerian Navy’s 70 years of distinguished service to the nation.

The event formed part of a week-long celebration that culminated in the International Fleet Review at the Eko Atlantic Waterfront, where President Bola Ahmed Tinubu served as the reviewing officer and reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s maritime security architecture.

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As part of the anniversary activities, the President commissioned three naval vessels — NNS Oloibiri, NNS Mambila and NNS Gurara — and inaugurated the Combined Maritime Task Force for the Gulf of Guinea, a regional security initiative aimed at enhancing cooperation among coastal nations in combating piracy, smuggling and other transnational maritime crimes.

Tinubu commended the Navy’s operational achievements over the past seven decades, noting its critical role in tackling piracy, crude oil theft, illegal fishing and maritime insecurity, while pledging continued support for naval modernisation and indigenous shipbuilding efforts.

Speaking at the dinner and awards night, Sanwo-Olu noted that Lagos shares a deep and historic relationship with the Nigerian Navy, given the state’s strategic position as Nigeria’s commercial hub and maritime gateway.

“For seven decades, the Nigerian Navy has remained a vital pillar of our national security, protecting our waters and safeguarding our national interests,” the governor said.

He added that beyond securing the nation’s coastline, the Navy plays a critical role in protecting economic assets, supporting maritime trade and ensuring the smooth flow of commerce through Nigeria’s ports and waterways.

The governor commended serving officers, ratings and veterans of the Navy for their dedication, professionalism and sacrifices in service to the country.

“I commend the officers, ratings and veterans whose dedication and sacrifice continue to strengthen our nation,” he said.

Sanwo-Olu congratulated the Nigerian Navy on the milestone anniversary and wished the service continued success in its mission of defending Nigeria’s territorial waters and maritime interests.

Established in 1956, the Nigerian Navy has evolved into one of Africa’s leading maritime forces, playing a central role in maritime security operations, regional cooperation and the protection of critical national assets in the Gulf of Guinea and beyond.