FG boosts Naval capabilities as Tinubu commissions three war ships

…Tasks the Navy on maritime safety

President Bola Tinubu, on Monday, commissioned three warships belonging to the Nigerian Navy as part of efforts to strengthen its operational capabilities at the international fleet review to commemorate the Nigerian Navy’s 70th anniversary at the Eko Atlantic waterfront in Lagos.

President Tinubu, while commissioning the warships, described the event as part of his administration’s unwavering commitment to the recapitalisation of the Nigerian Navy.

He also assured that his administration would continue to promote indigenous shipbuilding capacity and provide the necessary strategic support for a responsive and capable naval force, adding that “the nation looks forward to even greater strides in ensuring maritime security.”

BusinessDay gathered that the event was part of the activities meant to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the Nigerian Navy.

According to him, “This milestone offers us a moment not only for celebration but for reflection on a remarkable journey that has transformed a modest vision into a formidable maritime force.”

“Since its humble beginnings in 1956 as a colonial Marine Department, 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”.

President Tinubu congratulated the Nigerian Navy for emerging the most formidable Naval Force in Africa.

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“That this historic achievement coincides with your 70th Anniversary is no mere accident, rather, it is a powerful and symbolic alignment, which signifies that the Nigerian Navy has not only matured, but has reached a pinnacle of continental leadership.

“I am also elated to witness this historic International Fleet Review”, he said.

The President stressed that the “aerial combat displays and parade of the large array of our nation’s naval assets along with those of our foreign partners, reflect the global recognition of the Nigerian Navy and its pivotal role in promoting international collaboration for maritime security.

He therefore charge the officers and ratings of the Nigerian Navy to sustain this high standard of professionalism and to continually deepen your operational capability and effectiveness in safeguarding the nation’s waters.

“Nigeria’s maritime domain, endowed with immense natural wealth, remains a vital pillar of our national economy; serving as a major source of foreign exchange and a critical artery for global trade. I commend the Nigerian Navy for its steadfast guardianship of this strategic space.

The President also noted that through the effective integration of surveillance systems, rapid response mechanisms and robust enforcement operations, the Navy has successfully eradicated piracy in our waters and significantly curtailed crude oil theft and associated maritime crimes.

“These achievements have enhanced the security of our littoral communities and contributed to increased oil production, thereby supporting national economic growth.

“Your theme for this milestone event, “Seven Decades of Operational Excellence,” is not merely a slogan, but a proven reality. As we look to the future, I am confident that the Nigerian Navy will sustain this momentum and continue to secure the maritime environment as a thriving engine of our blue economy.

“Beyond the maritime domain, I also commend the Nigerian Navy for its contributions to counterterrorism and counterinsurgency operations across the country”.

He also commended the courage and professionalism demonstrated by the Special Boat Service in executing complex missions

“More so, with the recent induction of the Nigerian Navy Marines into operational theatres, I am confident that even greater successes will be recorded. Indeed, the Nigerian Navy has become an indispensable pillar of both national and regional security.”

President Tinubu also expressed deep appreciation to the international partners for their invaluable contributions to security efforts in the Gulf of Guinea, adding that ” The inauguration of the Combined Maritime Task Force stands as a clear demonstration of our collective resolve to strengthen multinational cooperation in maritime governance.

“With pledged platforms, the Task Force would no doubt be a valid infusion of operational capability in securing our shared maritime domain. I therefore commend the pioneering efforts of Côte d’Ivoire, The Gambia, Ghana, Liberia and Sierra Leone in bringing this important initiative to fruition”, he said