President Bola Tinubu has praised the Nigerian Navy for strengthening security across the nation’s waterways, stating that its sustained operations have eliminated piracy in Nigerian waters and significantly reduced crude oil theft.
The President made the remarks on Monday during the inauguration of the Nigerian Navy International Fleet Review held at the Eko Atlantic Waterfront in Victoria Island, Lagos.
The fleet review formed the centrepiece of activities commemorating the Nigerian Navy’s 70th anniversary, marking seven decades since the force was established on June 1, 1956.
Addressing naval officers, military commanders and international guests at the ceremony, Tinubu applauded the service for its growing operational capacity and its contribution to safeguarding Nigeria’s coastal communities and maritime assets.
According to the President, the Navy’s effective deployment of surveillance systems, rapid-response strategies and coordinated operations has produced remarkable results in tackling criminal activities at sea.
“Through effective integration of surveillance, rapid response mechanisms, and operations, you have successfully eradicated piracy in our waters and significantly curtailed crude oil theft and associated maritime crime,” he said.
Tinubu noted that the achievements had improved security around coastal settlements while also creating a more favourable environment for economic activities.
“These achievements have enhanced the security of communities and contributed to increasing, thereby supporting national economic growth.
”I am confident that the Nigerian Navy will continue to secure the maritime environment as a thriving engine of our blue economy,” the President added.
As part of the anniversary celebrations, three naval vessels NNS Mambila, NNS Gurara and NNS Oloibiri were formally commissioned.
The event also featured a presidential fleet review, ceremonial parade and the presentation of new colours to the service.
Beyond maritime security operations, Tinubu acknowledged the Navy’s role in combating insecurity across various parts of the country.
He specifically commended members of the Special Boat Service for their performance in difficult assignments.
“Beyond the maritime domain, I also commend the Nigerian Navy for its contribution to counter-terrorism and insurgency,” he stated.
“The courage and professionalism demonstrated by the Special Boat Services in executing complex missions are truly commendable.”
The President further urged officers and ratings of the Navy to sustain their professional standards and continue improving their operational effectiveness to meet emerging security challenges.
“I charge the officers of the Nigerian Navy to sustain this high standard of professionalism and continually deepen your operational capability and effectiveness to safeguard our waters,” he said.
Reflecting on the Navy’s journey over the past seven decades, Tinubu described the service as a vital institution that has evolved alongside Nigeria’s development as an independent nation.
He said the Navy had transformed from a modest force into a technologically advanced institution playing a critical role in national security and economic stability.
“The Nigerian Navy has evolved in tandem with our nation’s sovereignty, growing from a fledgling service into a modern, sophisticated naval power and an anchor of stability for Nigeria’s economic prosperity,” the President remarked.
He further asserted that the service has attained a leading position on the African continent.
“The Nigerian Navy has reached a pinnacle of continental leadership. Congratulations to the Nigerian Navy for emerging as the most formidable naval force in Africa,” Tinubu declared.
The anniversary celebration showcased the Navy’s achievements over the years while highlighting its expanding role in maritime security, anti-crime operations and national defence.
