President Bola Tinubu has bolstered Nigeria’s naval capabilities with the official commissioning of three Nigerian Navy Ships—NNS SHERE, NNS FARO, and NNS IKOGOSI—alongside three AW109 Trekker helicopters, numbered 501, 502, and 503.
The commissioning ceremony took place on Saturday in Lagos, marking a significant upgrade in the country’s maritime defense strategy.
Represented by the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, Tinubu emphasized that the addition of these fast patrol boats and maritime surveillance helicopters reflects Nigeria’s unwavering resolve to secure its maritime domain.
“The sea has remained a pillar of our nation’s economic prosperity and for the past 69 years, the Nigerian Navy has stood as the guardian of this blue territory,” he noted, adding that the newly inducted assets would serve as force multipliers in combating piracy, oil theft, illegal fishing, and other maritime crimes.
The president commended the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, for spearheading the Navy’s fleet modernization efforts and closing operational capability gaps. He also acknowledged the National Assembly for its bipartisan support in funding and oversight.
“This induction is a fruit of strategic foresight,” Tinubu stated. “Let us sustain this unity of purpose, for the sea does not distinguish between political lines; it demands our collective vigilance.”
He further appreciated international allies and technical partners for their collaboration, underscoring that the security of the Gulf of Guinea is a global concern, not just Nigeria’s responsibility.
Addressing the naval officers and ratings who will operate the newly commissioned assets, Tinubu urged them to embrace their roles with dedication, saying, “The weight of Nigeria’s aspirations rests on your shoulders.”
He concluded by reaffirming his administration’s commitment to empowering the Navy, calling it the backbone of Nigeria’s maritime economy, and encouraging them to “sail forth with courage, knowing a grateful nation stands behind you.”
