President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s maritime security architecture with the commissioning of three new naval vessels and the inauguration of a Combined Maritime Task Force for the Gulf of Guinea. The President commissioned NNS Oloibiri, NNS Mambila and NNS Gurara in Lagos as part of activities marking the […]
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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s maritime security architecture with the commissioning of three new naval vessels and the inauguration of a Combined Maritime Task Force for the Gulf of Guinea.
The President commissioned NNS Oloibiri, NNS Mambila and NNS Gurara in Lagos as part of activities marking the 70th anniversary of the Nigerian Navy and the commencement of the 2026 Navy International Fleet Review.
Tinubu described the Navy’s platinum jubilee as a significant milestone, noting that the service has evolved from a modest maritime force into one of Africa’s leading naval institutions.
According to him, the Navy’s growth reflects decades of professionalism, operational excellence and strategic development, making it a critical component of Nigeria’s national security framework.
The President said the acquisition of the new vessels underscores his administration’s commitment to strengthening the Navy through recapitalisation, support for indigenous shipbuilding, and improved operational capabilities.
He also commended the Navy for its role in securing Nigeria’s maritime domain, noting that efforts by the service have helped eliminate piracy in Nigerian waters and significantly reduce crude oil theft and other maritime crimes.
Tinubu added that these achievements have improved safety in coastal communities while supporting increased oil production and economic growth.
The President further praised the Navy’s contributions to counterterrorism and counterinsurgency operations, describing the service as an indispensable pillar of both national and regional security.
As part of the event, Tinubu inaugurated the Gulf of Guinea Combined Maritime Task Force, describing the initiative as a major step toward enhancing regional cooperation against piracy, illegal fishing, crude oil theft, and other transnational maritime crimes.
He also acknowledged the contributions of several West African countries participating in the initiative and expressed confidence that deeper collaboration would strengthen maritime security across the region.
Earlier, the Chief of Naval Staff, Idi Abbas, attributed the Navy’s recent successes to sustained investments, policy support, modern platforms, improved surveillance systems, and enhanced inter-agency cooperation.
He reaffirmed the commitment of officers and personnel to defending Nigeria’s maritime domain and safeguarding national interests.
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