By Miriam Humbe
The Nigerian Navy on Thursday, kick-started a week of activities to mark its 70 years anniversary as the most efficient and dominant naval force on the African continent.
Represented by the Chief of Policy and Plans (CPPLANS), Nigerian Navy, Rear Admiral Akinola Olodude, the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas highlighted the achievements and challenges of the Navy in the past 7 decades of its existence.
The Naval Chief was speaking to journalists during a press briefing at the Navy Headquarters, Abuja.
More than 25 Naval Chiefs from Africa are expected to arrive in Nigeria for the week long celebration.
The Nigerian Navy has evolved into a formidable maritime and anti-piracy force, beginning with its inception as the Nigerian Naval Defence Force established in June 1956.
The Naval Chief said that activities for the anniversary would commence immediately and run through June 4, 2026, across Lagos and all naval formations nationwide.
He said that over the decades, and particularly in recent years, the Nigerian Navy has achieved a historic milestone in eradicating piracy within its territorial waters, and this success has transformed the previously notorious Gulf of Guinea into a significantly safer trade corridor.
Through proactive patrols, inter-agency cooperation, and intelligence gathering, the Nigerian Navy has effectively curtailed sea robberies, oil theft, and smuggling.
The Navy operates in conjunction with the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) using state-of-the-art platforms, interceptor vessels, and surveillance aircraft.
The events lined up for the platinum anniversary celebration include the 6th Sea Power for Africa Symposium.
The week-long celebration also includes tactical demonstrations, traditional visits to stakeholders like the Oba of Lagos, and ceremonial displays to celebrate decades of naval excellence.
The celebrations are centered in Lagos from May 31 to June 4, 2026, and will feature an international fleet review and technological showcases.
By securing its strategic assets and territorial waters, the Navy maintains stability for global shipping and local coastal communities.
While fielding questions from journalists, the CPPLANS said that communities and other stakeholders such as the media has a lot to contribute in furthering the success of Naval operations.
He therefore urged communities to take ownership and protect Naval vessels in their localities.
