Nigerian Navy Marks 69th Anniversary With Operational Gains, New Assets and Strategic Initiatives

Nigerian Navy Marks 69th Anniversary With Operational Gains, New Assets and Strategic Initiatives

The Nigerian Navy has unveiled a lineup of events to commemorate its 69th anniversary, spotlighting key operational achievements, ongoing fleet expansion and strengthened regional collaboration. The announcement was made at a press briefing held on Monday, 19 May 2025, at the Naval Headquarters, Abuja.

Representing the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, the Chief of Policy and Plans, Rear Admiral Ibrahim Abdullahi Dewu, outlined the scheduled activities taking place from Friday, 23 May to Sunday, 1 June 2025, in Lagos and other naval commands nationwide.

Rear Admiral Dewu described Navy Week as a time-honoured tradition celebrating the service’s founding on 1 June 1956, and a platform to showcase its performance and transformation efforts. He highlighted the Nigerian Navy’s improved operational readiness under Vice Admiral Ogalla’s leadership, especially in countering crude oil theft.

“Through Operation Delta Sanity, re-launched as Delta Sanity II in December 2024, we’ve seen impressive results. In 2024 alone, 215 suspects and 26 vessels were apprehended, 468 illegal refinery sites were deactivated, and over 13 million litres of stolen crude and refined products recovered. So far in 2025, we’ve dismantled 103 illegal sites and recovered over 900,000 litres,” he said.

He further noted the Navy’s enhanced maritime domain awareness, facilitated by the Falcon Eye and Regional Maritime Awareness Capability systems, which have helped maintain Nigeria’s zero-piracy status. He also cited the Navy’s growing regional role, including the hosting of the 8th Symposium of Gulf of Guinea Navies and the signing of a strategic sea-lift agreement with the African Union for peacekeeping and humanitarian operations.

As part of its fleet modernization, the Navy will commission three new patrol vessels, NNS SHERE, NNS FARO, and NNS IKOGOSI, alongside three AgustaWestland 109 Trekker helicopters. These additions aim to bolster maritime security and air surveillance operations.

Activities lined up for Navy Week include interfaith prayers, medical outreach programmes, a sailing competition, ship tours, infrastructure commissioning, and a ceremonial sunset. The celebration will culminate in a grand dinner on Sunday, 1 June 2025, at the Naval Dockyard, Victoria Island, Lagos.

Rear Admiral Dewu also thanked the media for their continued support and urged widespread coverage of the anniversary to raise awareness of the Navy’s contributions to national and regional stability.

“On behalf of the Chief of the Naval Staff and the entire naval family, I extend our gratitude for your partnership. We look forward to your active engagement and coverage as we celebrate the Nigerian Navy at 69,” he said.