By Muhyideen Jimoh
President Bola Tinubu on Monday reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening the Nigerian Navy (NN) through sustained recapitalisation and support for indigenous shipbuilding.
Tinubu who inaugurated three new naval vessels to the nation’s fleet stated this at the International Fleet Review held at the Eko Atlantic Waterfront, Lagos, to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the Nigerian Navy.
The president said the new fleets was part of efforts to enhance maritime security and operational effectiveness.
“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 70 years of service, describing it as Africa’s most formidable naval force.
According to him, the Navy has evolved from a colonial marine department established in 1956 into a modern and sophisticated maritime force that contributes significantly to national security and economic prosperity.
He said the International Fleet Review and participation of foreign partners reflected global recognition of the Navy’s growing role in promoting maritime security and international cooperation.
The president commended officers and ratings of the Navy for maintaining professionalism and urged them to continue strengthening their operational capabilities.
Tinubu noted that Nigeria’s maritime domain remained a critical pillar of the economy, serving as a major source of foreign exchange earnings and 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 curtailed 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.
Tinubu also lauded the Navy’s contributions to counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency operations across the country, particularly the role 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.
The president 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 capability in securing the shared maritime domain.
Tinubu specifically commended Côte d’Ivoire, The Gambia, Ghana, Liberia and Sierra Leone for their efforts in bringing the initiative to fruition.
He expressed confidence that the Nigerian Navy would sustain its operational excellence and continue to support the development of the nation’s blue economy.
Earlier, the Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Adm. Idi Abbas said the Nigerian navy will continue to work round the clock to secure the nation’s maritime territory.
The event was attended by Service Chiefs, Minister of Defence, retired Gen. Christopher Musa, Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, top government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, among others. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Sadiya Hamza
