President Bola Tinubu has commended the Nigerian Navy for its role in safeguarding the nation’s territorial waters, declaring that the service has successfully eliminated piracy and significantly reduced crude oil theft across the maritime domain.
The President made the remarks on Monday while inaugurating the Nigerian Navy International Fleet Review (IFR) at the Eko Atlantic Waterfront in Victoria Island, Lagos.
The event served as the flagship activity marking the 70th anniversary of the Nigerian Navy, which was established on June 1, 1956.
Addressing naval personnel, military chiefs and foreign dignitaries, Tinubu praised the Navy’s enhanced operational capabilities, noting that its efforts have improved security in coastal communities and strengthened economic activities.
“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.
“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 said.
The ceremony also featured the commissioning of three naval vessels — NNS Mambila, NNS Gurara and NNS Oloibiri — as well as a presidential trooping and presentation of new colours.
Tinubu further commended the Navy’s contributions to internal security operations, particularly in the fight against terrorism and insurgency.
“Beyond the maritime domain, I also commend the Nigerian Navy for its contribution to counter-terrorism and insurgency.
“The courage and professionalism demonstrated by the Special Boat Services in executing complex missions are truly commendable,” he stated.
The President urged officers and personnel of the service to maintain high professional standards and continue strengthening their operational effectiveness.
“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 seven-decade journey, Tinubu described its transformation from a modest force into a modern and sophisticated maritime institution that plays a critical role in Nigeria’s security and economic development.
“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 Nigerian Navy has reached a pinnacle of continental leadership. Congratulations to the Nigerian Navy for emerging as the most formidable naval force in Africa,” the President added.