President Bola Tinubu today celebrated the Nigerian Navy’s 70th anniversary, describing the service as Africa’s most formidable naval force and a critical pillar of Nigeria’s security and economic prosperity.
Speaking at the International Fleet Review held at the Eko Atlantic Waterfront in Lagos, the President joined military officials, foreign dignitaries and international partners to mark the historic milestone, while reflecting on the Navy’s transformation over the past seven decades.
Tinubu said the anniversary was not only a moment of celebration but also an opportunity to reflect on the Navy’s remarkable journey from its origins as a colonial Marine Department in 1956 to a modern and sophisticated maritime force.
He congratulated the Navy for attaining what he described as continental leadership, noting that its emergence as Africa’s leading naval force coincided symbolically with its 70th anniversary.
“The Nigerian Navy has evolved alongside our nation’s sovereignty, growing into a formidable maritime power and an anchor of stability for our economic prosperity,” the President said.
The event featured aerial combat displays and a parade of naval vessels from Nigeria and several foreign partners. Tinubu said the participation of international allies underscored the growing recognition of the Nigerian Navy’s role in advancing maritime security and international cooperation.
He urged officers and ratings of the Navy to maintain their professionalism and continue enhancing their operational capabilities in protecting the country’s territorial waters.
Highlighting the importance of Nigeria’s maritime domain to the economy, the President commended the Navy’s efforts in securing the nation’s waterways and offshore assets. According to him, the effective deployment of surveillance systems, rapid-response operations and enforcement measures has helped eliminate piracy in Nigerian waters while significantly reducing crude oil theft and other maritime crimes.
He noted that the improved security environment has contributed to increased oil production, strengthened economic growth and enhanced the safety of coastal communities.
Tinubu also praised the Navy’s contributions beyond maritime operations, particularly its role in counterterrorism and counterinsurgency efforts across the country. He singled out the Special Boat Service for its professionalism in executing complex missions and expressed confidence that the recent deployment of Nigerian Navy Marines to operational theatres would further boost security operations nationwide.
The President also acknowledged the support of international partners in strengthening security within the Gulf of Guinea. He described the inauguration of the Combined Maritime Task Force as a significant step towards deeper multinational cooperation in maritime governance and security.
He specifically commended Côte d’Ivoire, The Gambia, Ghana, Liberia and Sierra Leone for their leadership in establishing the initiative, which he said would enhance collective operational capacity in securing shared maritime interests.
As part of the celebrations, Tinubu commissioned three new naval vessels, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to modernising and recapitalising the Nigerian Navy. He said the government would continue supporting indigenous shipbuilding and providing the resources required to maintain a capable and responsive naval force.
The President expressed optimism that the Navy would sustain its record of operational excellence and continue playing a leading role in securing Nigeria’s maritime environment and advancing the country’s blue economy agenda.
He concluded by congratulating officers and ratings of the Nigerian Navy on their 70th anniversary and wished them continued success in their service to the nation.