- The three Nigerian Navy Ships are NNS SHERE, NNS FARO, and NNS IKOGOSI
- Tinubu emphasized the importance of these new additions
- The President reassured the Nigerian Navy of his administration’s continued support
President Bola Tinubu has further strengthened Nigeria’s maritime security by inaugurating three Nigerian Navy Ships – NNS SHERE, NNS FARO, and NNS IKOGOSI – and inducting three AW109 Trekker helicopters: 501, 502, and 503 into the Nigerian Navy fleet.
Speaking through the Minister of State for Defence, Mr. Bello Matawalle, at the inauguration ceremony in Lagos on Saturday, Tinubu emphasized the importance of these new additions in affirming the country’s commitment to securing its maritime domain.
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Eko Hot Blog reports that the three Fast Patrol Boats and three maritime surveillance helicopters will play a crucial role in enhancing the Nigerian Navy’s capabilities to combat maritime crimes, such as piracy, illegal fishing, and oil theft.
“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.
“These patrol ships and helicopters are force multipliers in our fight against piracy, oil theft, illegal fishing, and other maritime crimes.
“This inauguration is therefore a reflection of our determination to empower our institutions and protect our resources,” he said.
The President reassured the Nigerian Navy of his administration’s continued support, highlighting the essential role a strong navy plays in securing and nurturing a prosperous economy.
He commended the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, for his exemplary leadership. Under Ogalla’s guidance, the Nigerian Navy has vigorously pursued fleet modernization, bridged capability gaps, and restored a sense of pride within the force.
“Today’s induction is a fruit of your strategic foresight, and I commend you, your team, and all partners who turned this vision into reality.
“I also commend the National Assembly for its partisan commitment to funding and oversight, which are instrumental to achieving this feat.
“Let us sustain this unity of purpose, for the sea does not distinguish between political lines; it demands our collective vigilance,” the president said.
Recognizing that maritime security transcends borders, Tinubu acknowledged the shared responsibility among nations to safeguard the world’s oceans
“Together, we are proving that the Gulf of Guinea’s safety is not Nigeria’s burden alone but a global imperative.
“To the officers and ratings who will crew the ships and operate the helicopters, as you operate these assets, remember that the weight of Nigeria’s aspirations rests on your shoulders.
“Let us envision the future they herald: a future where our waters are impervious to criminality; where fishermen cast their nets in peace; where global trade flows unhindered through our ports,” he said.
He hailed the Nigerian Navy as the guardian of the nation’s blue economy, Tinubu urged the naval forces to sail forth with courage and confidence.
