Tinubu commissions three naval vessels, hails Navy’s 70 years of maritime security
President Bola Tinubu on Monday commended the Nigerian Navy for seven decades of safeguarding the nation’s maritime domain, describing the service as a critical pillar of national and regional security.
The President spoke at the 2026 International Fleet Review held at the Eko Atlantic Waterfront in Lagos as part of activities marking the Nigerian Navy’s 70th anniversary. During the event, he commissioned three naval vessels—NNS Oloibiri, NNS Mambila and NNS Gurara.
Tinubu praised the Navy’s achievements in combating piracy, crude oil theft, illegal fishing, maritime smuggling and other transnational crimes in the Gulf of Guinea.
“Through the effective integration of surveillance systems, rapid response mechanisms and robust enforcement operations, you have successfully eradicated piracy in our waters and significantly curtailed crude oil theft and associated maritime crimes,” the President said.
“These achievements have enhanced the security of our littoral communities and contributed to increased oil production, thereby supporting national economic growth.”
The President noted that the Navy’s sustained operations against crude oil theft and maritime criminality have contributed to increased oil production, improved government revenue and strengthened investor confidence in the maritime sector.
He also lauded the Navy’s contributions to counterterrorism and counterinsurgency operations across the country, particularly the role of the Special Boat Service in executing complex missions.
“Beyond the maritime domain, I also commend the Nigerian Navy for its contributions to counterterrorism and counterinsurgency operations across the country. The courage and professionalism demonstrated by the Special Boat Service in executing complex missions are truly commendable,” he said.
