Matawalle hails Navy role in national security at 69th Anniversary Dinner

By Kunle Sanni

The Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Matawalle, on Sunday paid glowing tribute to the Nigerian Navy for its continued service and strategic role in safeguarding the nation’s maritime domain, as he served as Special Guest of Honour at the force’s 69th Anniversary Ceremonial Sunset and Dinner held at the Naval Dockyard, Victoria Island, Lagos.

In his remarks, Dr. Matawalle praised the professionalism, courage, and resilience of naval personnel over the years, describing the Navy’s role in securing Nigeria’s waters—particularly across the Gulf of Guinea and the country’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ)—as vital to both national security and economic development.

“I commend the Nigerian Navy for 69 years of steadfast service to our nation,” he said. “Their operational resilience and commitment have been instrumental in maintaining maritime security and economic stability.”

The Minister singled out the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, for his “visionary leadership and bold reforms,” noting significant strides in enhancing fleet readiness and operational capabilities under his command.

A highlight of the evening was the official unveiling of the logo of the Nigerian Navy Special Operations Command (NNSOC) by Dr. Matawalle. The NNSOC, described as a strategic rapid deployment unit, is designed to undertake high-risk, land-based missions in support of internal security efforts—marking a major step forward in Nigeria’s evolving security strategy.

Dr. Matawalle also launched the official logo for the Navy’s upcoming 70th Anniversary, thereby kicking off the countdown to the milestone celebration slated for 2026.

Reaffirming the administration’s commitment to maritime security, the Minister emphasized that a secure maritime environment remains a key pillar of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

“Maritime security is central to our national development, regional leadership, and global maritime relevance,” he stated.