70th Anniversary: Our Navy, Most Formidable Force in Africa — Tinubu

– President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has described the Nigerian Navy as the most formidable naval force in Africa, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to strengthening its operational capacity as the service marked its 70th anniversary.

Tinubu made the declaration during the International Fleet Review and International Maritime Exercise held at the Eko Atlantic Waterfront in Victoria Island, Lagos, as part of activities commemorating the anniversary.

The President stated that the Navy’s evolution from a modest colonial marine outfit established in 1956 to a modern maritime force reflects decades of institutional growth and strategic development in Nigeria’s defence architecture.

According to him, the administration remains committed to recapitalising the Navy through investments in new vessels, infrastructure and indigenous shipbuilding capacity aimed at improving maritime security and safeguarding national economic assets.

As part of the anniversary celebrations, the Navy received three newly commissioned warships, a development the President said would significantly enhance surveillance, response capability and maritime dominance within Nigeria’s territorial waters.

He noted that these investments are part of broader efforts to secure the Gulf of Guinea, protect critical oil infrastructure and strengthen Nigeria’s blue economy potential.

Tinubu also praised the Navy for its role in reducing piracy, curbing crude oil theft and improving security across coastal communities, stating that these achievements demonstrate its growing effectiveness as a key pillar of national security.

He further commended the service for leveraging advanced surveillance systems and rapid-response operations to maintain stability within Nigeria’s maritime domain.

The Chief of the Naval Staff, Idi Abbas, announced the establishment of a Combined Maritime Task Force involving six countries within the Gulf of Guinea. He said the initiative would strengthen regional cooperation in addressing piracy, trafficking and other maritime threats.

According to him, the task force reflects a shared commitment among regional partners to secure maritime routes and promote economic stability across West Africa.

The naval chief added that the anniversary was not only a celebration but also an opportunity to reaffirm the Navy’s dedication to national service, regional collaboration and maritime security.

The event underscored Nigeria’s increasing focus on maritime defence as a strategic pillar for economic growth, energy security and regional leadership in Africa’s coastal security architecture.