President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has praised the Nigerian Navy for what he described as the successful elimination of piracy in Nigeria’s territorial waters.
Tinubu gave the commendation on Monday during the commissioning of three naval vessels and the review of a combined fleet of Nigerian and allied warships at the 2026 International Fleet Review held at the Eko Atlantic Waterfront in Lagos, as part of activities marking the Navy’s 70th anniversary.
According to a statement issued by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the newly commissioned vessels, NNS Oloibiri, NNS Mambila and NNS Gurara, form part of an expanded naval fleet deployed to strengthen maritime security operations across the Gulf of Guinea.
The President, who served as Reviewing Officer, commended the Navy’s performance in combating piracy, crude oil theft, illegal fishing and maritime smuggling, noting that sustained operations have significantly improved security in Nigeria’s maritime environment.
He stated that the Navy’s use of advanced surveillance systems, rapid response capabilities and enforcement strategies had led to major gains, including the eradication of piracy and a sharp reduction in other maritime crimes.
Tinubu linked these achievements to broader national benefits, including increased crude oil production, improved government revenue and growing investor confidence in the economy.
He also praised the Navy’s involvement in internal security operations, including counterterrorism and counterinsurgency efforts, describing the Special Boat Service as highly professional in executing complex missions. He further expressed confidence that the recent deployment of the Nigerian Navy Marines would enhance operational success across theatres.
Reaffirming the importance of Nigeria’s maritime space to national development, the President described it as a key driver of foreign exchange earnings and international trade, pledging continued government investment in modern naval platforms, technology, personnel welfare and training.
The Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, attributed the Navy’s achievements to sustained policy support, improved equipment acquisition and stronger inter-agency cooperation, while reaffirming the loyalty of naval personnel to the Constitution and the Commander-in-Chief.
The event was attended by senior naval chiefs from several West African countries, alongside European delegations and top Nigerian security and government officials, underscoring regional collaboration in addressing maritime security challenges in the Gulf of Guinea.