Lagos – President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has applauded the Nigerian Navy for its significant contributions to maritime security, particularly its success in combating piracy, crude oil theft and other maritime crimes in the Gulf of Guinea.
Speaking at the International Fleet Review held as part of activities marking the Nigerian Navy’s anniversary celebration, the President said the service had become a critical pillar of national and regional security through its professionalism, operational effectiveness and strategic partnerships.
Tinubu noted that Nigeria’s maritime domain remains one of the country’s most important economic assets, serving as a major source of foreign exchange earnings and a gateway for international trade.
According to him, the Nigerian Navy’s sustained efforts in securing the nation’s waters have contributed to improved economic activities, increased oil production and greater confidence among maritime stakeholders.
“The Nigerian maritime domain, endowed with immense natural wealth, remains a vital pillar of our national economy. I commend the Nigerian Navy for its steadfast guardianship of this strategic space through effective integration of surveillance systems, rapid response mechanisms and robust enforcement operations,” he said.
The President praised the Navy for substantially reducing maritime crimes and eliminating piracy in Nigerian waters, a feat that has attracted international recognition and strengthened the country’s standing within the global maritime community.
He stated that the Navy’s achievements have improved the safety of coastal communities and enhanced Nigeria’s reputation as a secure destination for maritime trade and investment.
President Tinubu also highlighted the importance of international cooperation in addressing security challenges in the Gulf of Guinea, describing the region as a shared maritime environment that requires collective action.
He expressed appreciation to foreign navies, coast guards and international partners participating in the fleet review, saying their presence demonstrated a common commitment to securing international waterways.
A major highlight of the event was the inauguration of the Combined Maritime Task Force, an initiative aimed at strengthening multinational cooperation in maritime security operations across West Africa.
Tinubu described the task force as a landmark achievement that would improve coordination among participating countries and enhance the collective capacity to address emerging maritime threats.
He commended Côte d’Ivoire, The Gambia, Ghana, Liberia and Sierra Leone for their roles in establishing the initiative and pledged Nigeria’s continued support for regional maritime collaboration.
“The inauguration of the Combined Maritime Task Force stands as a clear demonstration of our collective resolve to strengthen multinational cooperation in maritime governance and maritime security,” he said.
The President further reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to modernising the Nigerian Navy through sustained investment in fleet recapitalisation and operational assets.
As part of the ceremony, three newly acquired naval vessels were commissioned into service, reflecting ongoing efforts to strengthen the Navy’s ability to respond effectively to security challenges across Nigeria’s maritime domain.
Tinubu said the acquisition of the vessels underscores the Federal Government’s determination to build a modern and capable naval force equipped to protect national interests.
He added that efforts were also underway to support indigenous shipbuilding and expand the Navy’s operational capabilities through strategic investments and technological innovation.
Beyond maritime operations, the President commended the Navy’s growing role in internal security operations, particularly its contributions to counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency campaigns.
He praised the Special Boat Service and other naval units for their professionalism and bravery in executing complex operations in support of national security objectives.
The President also expressed optimism that the newly inducted Nigerian Navy Marines would further enhance the service’s capacity to combat terrorism, criminality and other security threats.
Describing the Navy as an institution that has evolved remarkably over the decades, Tinubu said it has grown from a modest maritime service into one of Africa’s leading naval forces.
He urged officers and ratings to remain committed to professionalism, discipline and operational excellence as they continue to safeguard the nation’s maritime interests.
The International Fleet Review featured naval ships, aerial displays and participation by friendly foreign navies, showcasing the Nigerian Navy’s growing capabilities and reinforcing its commitment to regional peace, security and maritime cooperation.
President Tinubu concluded by congratulating officers and men of the Navy on their achievements and reaffirmed the Federal Government’s support for the service’s mission of securing Nigeria’s waters and contributing to regional stability.
