President Bola Ahmed Tinubu turned the spotlight on the Nigerian Navy’s seven decades of service on Monday, commending its role in safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime lifelines and boosting national revenue.
Speaking at the 2026 International Fleet Review at the Eko Atlantic Waterfront, Lagos, Tinubu commissioned three new vessels — NNS Oloibiri, NNS Mambila, and NNS Gurara — and declared the Navy “an indispensable pillar of national and regional security.”
The President praised the Navy’s fight against piracy, crude oil theft, illegal fishing, and maritime smuggling in the Gulf of Guinea, noting that its operations have “significantly boosted oil production, improved national revenue, and strengthened investor confidence.”
He also lauded the Special Boat Service and newly inducted Marine units for their courage in counterterrorism and counterinsurgency missions.
Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to modernising the Navy with advanced platforms, technology, and training, while thanking foreign navies for joining the fleet review — a show of international cooperation in maritime security.
Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, Chief of Naval Staff, credited recent successes to strategic investments and presidential support, pledging continued vigilance against maritime crime.
The event drew dignitaries, including governors, lawmakers, service chiefs, and naval leaders from across West Africa and Europe, underscoring Nigeria’s growing role in regional maritime stability.
