Tinubu Commissions New Navy Ships and Surveillance Helicopters to Boost Maritime Security
Three Fast Patrol Boats and AW109 helicopters join Nigerian Navy fleet as Tinubu reaffirms commitment to maritime defence.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has officially commissioned three Nigerian Navy Ships (NNS) and three AW109 Trekker helicopters into the Nigerian Navy fleet to enhance maritime security and combat illegal activities in the Gulf of Guinea and Nigeria’s coastal waters.
The assets—NNS SHERE, NNS FARO, NNS IKOGOSI, and Helicopters 501, 502, and 503—were inaugurated during a ceremony held on Saturday in Lagos.
Represented by Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, the President emphasized that the new additions are part of a broader effort to strengthen Nigeria’s blue economy, secure vital sea lanes, and fight maritime crimes such as piracy, oil theft, and illegal fishing.
“These patrol ships and helicopters are force multipliers in our fight against piracy, oil theft, illegal fishing, and other maritime crimes,” Tinubu stated.
“This inauguration reflects our determination to empower our institutions and protect our national resources.”
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to modernizing the Navy and improving national security infrastructure, stating:
“A strong navy is the cornerstone of a secure and prosperous economy.”
Tinubu commended the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, for driving forward the Navy’s fleet modernization agenda with strategic foresight, effectively bridging capability gaps and enhancing operational readiness.
“Today’s induction is a fruit of your vision, and I commend you, your team, and our international technical partners for making this possible.”
The President also praised the National Assembly for its bipartisan support in funding and oversight, urging continued unity in addressing national security challenges.
Acknowledging the role of international partners, Tinubu noted that the safety of the Gulf of Guinea is a shared responsibility:
“Maritime security knows no borders. The Gulf of Guinea’s safety is not Nigeria’s burden alone—it is a global imperative.”
To the officers and crew members tasked with operating the new assets, Tinubu charged them with patriotism and professionalism:
“As you operate these assets, remember that the weight of Nigeria’s aspirations rests on your shoulders. Protect our waters, empower our economy, and make our nation proud.”
