President Bola Tinubu on Monday reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s maritime security architecture with the commissioning of three naval vessels—NNS Oloibiri, NNS Mambila, and NNS Gurara.
He also inaugurated a Combined Maritime Task Force for the Gulf of Guinea as part of broader efforts to enhance regional security cooperation.
Speaking at the Eko Atlantic Waterfront in Lagos during the kickoff of activities marking the Nigerian Navy’s 70th anniversary, Tinubu, who also flagged off the 2026 Navy International Fleet Review, described the milestone as historic. He noted that it symbolises the transformation of the Navy from a modest maritime outfit into one of Africa’s leading naval forces.
According to the president, the Nigerian Navy has grown alongside the country’s sovereignty since its establishment in 1956, evolving into a modern and sophisticated force that plays a vital role in national security, economic growth, and regional stability.
Tinubu commended the Navy for attaining continental prominence, attributing its status to decades of professionalism, operational excellence, and strategic development.
To further boost operational capacity, he said the newly commissioned vessels demonstrate his administration’s dedication to modernising the Navy, promoting local shipbuilding, and providing the necessary support for an effective maritime force.
He added that the aerial displays and naval demonstrations by Nigeria and its international partners underscore the global recognition of the Nigerian Navy’s role in securing the Gulf of Guinea and beyond.
Tinubu praised the Navy for securing Nigeria’s maritime domain, noting that piracy has been eliminated in local waters while crude oil theft and other maritime crimes have been significantly reduced through improved surveillance, swift response strategies, and strong enforcement.
He said these achievements have enhanced the safety of coastal communities, increased oil output, and supported broader economic development.
The president urged naval personnel to maintain high standards of professionalism, discipline, and efficiency while adapting to emerging security challenges.
Expressing optimism about the future of the service, Tinubu said the anniversary theme, “Seven Decades of Operational Excellence,” accurately reflects the Navy’s enduring contributions to national development.
He also commended the Navy’s role in counterterrorism and counterinsurgency operations, particularly highlighting the Special Boat Service and the deployment of Navy Marines in various operational theatres.
“The Nigerian Navy remains a critical pillar of national and regional security,” Tinubu said.
The president described the newly inaugurated Gulf of Guinea Combined Maritime Task Force as a clear demonstration of regional commitment to tackling piracy, oil theft, illegal fishing, and other transnational maritime threats.
He appreciated international partners for their support and praised countries such as Côte d’Ivoire, The Gambia, Ghana, Liberia, and Sierra Leone for their leadership in the initiative, expressing confidence that deeper collaboration would strengthen maritime safety and economic prosperity in the region.
Tinubu congratulated the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, alongside officers, ratings, veterans, and their families, urging them to remain committed to duty, patriotism, and national service.
He reiterated that the Nigerian Navy’s growth from its origins as a colonial marine force to a leading naval power reflects its maturity and leadership on the continent.
Earlier, the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Abbas, attributed the Navy’s recent successes to sustained investments, policy support, and strong leadership from the president.
He noted that the acquisition of modern platforms, improved surveillance systems, and enhanced collaboration among security agencies have significantly strengthened maritime security.
Abbas added that these efforts have intensified the fight against piracy, crude oil theft, illegal fishing, and other maritime crimes in the Gulf of Guinea.
He reaffirmed the Navy’s loyalty to the constitution and commitment to defending Nigeria’s territorial waters, while also commending the sacrifices of both serving and retired personnel.
The naval chief assured Nigerians that the service would continue to leverage technology, innovation, and strategic partnerships to secure the nation’s maritime environment.
The event featured an impressive display of naval strength and international cooperation, including aerial demonstrations, a fleet sail pass, and a parade of naval assets from Nigeria and partner nations.
Dignitaries at the event included Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Chairman of the Senate Committee on Navy, Senator Gbenga Daniel, representing Senate President Godswill Akpabio; Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (rtd); and National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu.
Also in attendance were Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede; Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu; Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke; Inspector General of Police, Olatunji Disu; Nigeria’s Ambassador to the Philippines, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas; and former Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Awwal Gambo (rtd), among others.
The ceremony attracted naval representatives from across the world, state governors, members of the Federal Executive Council, diplomats, and industry leaders.