Lagos, Nigeria – President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has praised the Nigerian Navy as the most formidable naval force in Africa, describing its growth and capabilities as a historic achievement and a proud testament to Nigeria’s maritime strength.
The President made the remarks during the Nigerian Navy’s landmark 70th anniversary celebrations, which are taking place in Lagos from May 31 to June 4, 2026.
Tinubu Commends Navy’s Operational Excellence
Speaking at the International Fleet Review held at the Eko Atlantic Waterfront, President Tinubu commended the Navy for its impressive fleet display, combat demonstrations, and overall operational readiness. He highlighted the service’s critical role in safeguarding Nigeria’s territorial waters, protecting economic interests, and combating maritime threats such as piracy and oil theft.
The celebrations featured the commissioning of three new advanced vessels — **NNS Mambila**, **NNS Gurara**, and **NNS Oloibiri** — by the President, alongside the flag-off of a new Combined Maritime Task Force for the Gulf of Guinea.
Nigerian Navy Ranked Africa’s Strongest
The President’s commendation aligns with recent global assessments. According to the **2026 Global Firepower (GFP) Report**, the Nigerian Navy is ranked the strongest naval force in Africa and **22nd globally**, boasting over **150 vessels** — the largest fleet on the continent.
Established on June 1, 1956, as the Naval Defence Force of Nigeria, the service has evolved from a small coastal outfit into a blue-water navy capable of projecting power across the Gulf of Guinea and beyond.
Key Highlights of the 70th Anniversary
– International Fleet Review: Ships from allied nations including Côte d’Ivoire, Ghana, Benin, South Africa, and Brazil participated.
– *Civil-Military Engagement: Over 1,500–2,200 civilians sailed with the Navy in the “Sail with the Nigerian Navy” initiative to experience maritime operations firsthand.
– Multinational Cooperation: Launch of enhanced regional maritime security initiatives.
Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, emphasised the Navy’s transformation through training, platform acquisition, and international partnerships.
Strategic Importance
Nigeria’s maritime domain remains vital to the nation’s economy, particularly in oil and gas, trade, and fisheries. The Navy’s enhanced capabilities are seen as crucial in the fight against maritime crime in the Gulf of Guinea, one of the world’s hotspots for piracy.
President Tinubu reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to further strengthening the Navy to maintain its position as Africa’s leading maritime force.
This remains a developing story as the 70th anniversary celebrations continue throughout the week.
