President Bola Tinubu has commended the Nigerian Navy for attaining a position of continental leadership as it celebrates its 70th anniversary, describing it as a formidable military force.
Tinubu gave the commendation on Monday during the flag-off ceremony and operationalisation of the Combined Maritime Task Force in the Gulf of Guinea, held at Eko Atlantic Waterfront, Lagos.
The event, which had the theme “Seven Decades of Operational Excellence,” marked a significant milestone in the Navy’s evolution.
According to the president, the anniversary provides an opportunity not only for celebration but also for reflection on the Navy’s remarkable transformation from a modest beginning into a formidable maritime force.
“Since its humble beginnings in 1956 as a colonial marine, the Nigerian Navy has evolved alongside our nation’s sovereignty.
“It has grown from a fledgling service into a modern and sophisticated naval power, serving as an anchor of stability for Nigeria’s economic prosperity,” he said.
Tinubu congratulated the Navy for emerging as one of the most formidable naval forces in Africa.
“This achievement is no accident but a powerful and symbolic development, signifying that the Nigerian Navy has not only matured but has reached a pinnacle of continental leadership,” he added.
The president expressed delight at witnessing the international fleet review, which featured aerial combat displays and a parade of naval assets.
“Our ships were paraded alongside those of our foreign partners, reflecting global recognition of the Nigerian Navy and its pivotal role in promoting international collaboration for maritime security,” he said.
He urged officers and ratings of the Navy to sustain their professionalism and continue enhancing operational capability in safeguarding Nigeria’s waters.
Tinubu noted that Nigeria’s maritime domain remained a vital pillar of the national economy, serving as a major source of foreign exchange and a critical route for global trade.
He further commended the Navy for its success in eradicating piracy and significantly curbing crude oil theft and other maritime crimes through improved surveillance systems, rapid response strategies, and robust enforcement operations.
“These achievements have enhanced the security of our coastal communities and contributed to increased oil production, thereby supporting national economic growth,” he said.
The president also praised the Navy’s contributions to counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency operations across the country.
“The courage and professionalism demonstrated by the Special Boat Service in executing complex missions are commendable.
“With the recent induction of Navy Marines into operational theatres, I am confident that even greater successes will be recorded,” he said.
Tinubu described the Navy as an indispensable pillar of both national and regional security.
He also appreciated international partners for their support in enhancing security in the Gulf of Guinea.
“The inauguration of the Combined Maritime Task Force demonstrates our collective resolve to strengthen multinational cooperation in maritime governance.
“With pledged platforms, the task force will significantly boost our shared capacity to secure the maritime domain,” he said.
The president commended the efforts of Côte d’Ivoire, The Gambia, Ghana, Liberia, and Sierra Leone in advancing the initiative.
Tinubu reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to the recapitalisation of the Nigerian Navy, highlighted by the inauguration of three new vessels.
“As we continue to promote indigenous shipbuilding capacity and provide strategic support for a responsive and capable naval force, we look forward to even greater strides in maritime security,” he said.
