TINUBU DECLARES PIRACY ERADICATED IN NIGERIA’S WATERS, COMMISSIONS NAVY WARSHIPS IN LAGOS
Read Time:2 Minute, 3 Second
By Aishat Momoh. O.
President Bola Tinubu on Monday declared that the Nigerian Navy has successfully eradicated piracy within Nigeria’s territorial waters, citing improved maritime security operations and sustained enforcement efforts.
Tinubu made the declaration while commissioning three naval vessels—NNS Oloibiri, NNS Mambila and NNS Gurara—at the 2026 International Fleet Review held at the Eko Atlantic Waterfront, Lagos.
The event formed part of activities marking the 70th anniversary of the Nigerian Navy and featured a fleet review involving warships from Nigeria and allied countries.
According to a statement issued by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President commended the Navy’s operational successes in securing the maritime domain.
Tinubu said the Navy’s use of surveillance systems, rapid response capabilities and enforcement operations had eliminated piracy and significantly reduced crude oil theft and other maritime crimes.
“Through the effective integration of surveillance systems, rapid response mechanisms and robust enforcement operations, you have successfully eradicated piracy in our waters and significantly curtailed crude oil theft and associated maritime crimes,” the President said.
He added that the improved security situation had strengthened economic activity and boosted investor confidence, particularly in the oil and gas sector.
The President also praised the Navy’s role in counterterrorism and counterinsurgency operations across the country, noting the contributions of the Special Boat Service and newly inducted Nigerian Navy Marines.
Tinubu further reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to continued investment in naval capacity, including modern platforms, technology, training and personnel welfare.
“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,” he said.
The Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, attributed the Navy’s achievements to strategic investments, enhanced surveillance systems and stronger inter-agency cooperation.
He reaffirmed the loyalty and professionalism of naval personnel and pledged continued commitment to constitutional duties and national security.
The event was attended by chiefs of naval staff from Côte d’Ivoire, Ghana, Benin, Liberia, Sierra Leone and Guinea, alongside senior government officials including the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu; Defence Minister, General Christopher Musa (retd.); Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu; and other top military and political leaders.
The Nigerian Navy, established in 1956, currently operates across Nigeria’s coastline and Exclusive Economic Zone, playing a central role in maritime security and economic protection.
Happy
0 %
Sad
0 %
Excited
0 %
Sleepy
0 %
Angry
0 %
Surprise
0 %
0
0