Nigerian Navy at 70: Tinubu Pledges More Investment in Maritime Security

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has commended the Nigerian Navy for its achievements in combating piracy, crude oil theft, illegal fishing, and other maritime crimes, describing the service as a critical pillar of Nigeria’s national and regional security architecture. The President also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening the Navy through increased investments in modern equipment, technology, training, and personnel welfare.

Speaking 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, Tinubu praised the service for safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime domain and protecting the country’s economic interests. He noted that the Navy’s sustained operations against crude oil theft and maritime criminality have helped boost oil production, increase government revenue, and improve investor confidence in the maritime sector.

The President highlighted the Navy’s success in significantly reducing piracy and other maritime crimes through the deployment of advanced surveillance systems, rapid-response operations, and robust enforcement measures. According to him, these efforts have enhanced security in coastal communities and contributed to national economic growth.

Tinubu also applauded the Navy’s contributions to counterterrorism and counterinsurgency operations across the country, particularly the role of the Special Boat Service and the recent deployment of Navy Marines to operational theatres. He described the Nigerian Navy as an indispensable force in maintaining both domestic and regional security.

As part of the anniversary celebrations, the President commissioned three naval vessels; NNS Oloibiri, NNS Mambila, and NNS Gurara, aimed at enhancing the Navy’s operational capabilities. He also reiterated his administration’s resolve to continue modernizing the service through investments in advanced platforms, technology acquisition, capacity development, and improved welfare for personnel.

Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, attributed the Navy’s recent successes to strategic government support, improved surveillance capabilities, and stronger collaboration among security agencies. He pledged that the service would continue leveraging innovation and strategic partnerships to sustain gains made against piracy, oil theft, illegal fishing, and other transnational crimes in the Gulf of Guinea.

The anniversary event attracted senior government officials, military chiefs, foreign naval delegations, and representatives from several Gulf of Guinea nations, underscoring the growing importance of regional cooperation in maritime security.