President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering dedication to strengthening the operational readiness, strategic capacity, and overall effectiveness of the Nigerian Navy.
This renewed commitment comes against the backdrop of escalating maritime security challenges, particularly in the Gulf of Guinea and Nigeria’s territorial waters, where issues such as piracy, oil theft, smuggling, and illegal fishing continue to threaten national security and economic stability.
Speaking on behalf of the President, the Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Muhammad Matawalle, delivered the President’s message during a landmark event—the Passing Out Parade and Commissioning Ceremony of 264 newly trained naval cadets. The ceremony, held at the Nigerian Naval College in Onne, Ebubu, Rivers State, marked the graduation of officers from the Direct Short Service Course 29 (DSSC 29) and the Special Duty Pre-Commissioning Training Course 2024 (SDPCT 24).
According to a statement issued on Saturday by Ahmed Dan-Wudil, the President’s Personal Assistant on Media, Dr. Matawalle commended the Nigerian Navy for its relentless efforts in safeguarding the country’s maritime domain. He emphasized that an effective naval force is crucial not only for national defense but also for the protection of critical economic assets and infrastructure in Nigeria’s vast maritime environment.
The Minister highlighted a strong correlation between enhanced naval operations and positive economic indicators, particularly in the oil and gas sector. He cited the recent rise in Nigeria’s crude oil production levels to over 1.7 million barrels per day as a reflection of the Navy’s success in deterring oil theft and securing offshore installations. This development, he noted, signals increasing investor confidence and improved national revenue.
President Tinubu also acknowledged and praised the strategic reforms being implemented within the Navy under the leadership of Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, the Chief of Naval Staff. Among the key initiatives lauded were the establishment of specialized units such as the Nigerian Navy Special Operations Command and the Nigerian Navy Marine Corps—both of which are designed to respond swiftly to emerging threats and conduct high-risk missions in complex environments.
In addition, the President underscored the importance of recent infrastructural and technological advancements within the Navy. These include the operationalization of new strategic naval facilities such as the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) MADUEKE and Naval Base Epe, which are expected to enhance the Navy’s territorial coverage and rapid deployment capabilities. He also noted the impressive progress in indigenous shipbuilding efforts, which demonstrate growing self-sufficiency and innovation within the force.
Addressing the graduating cadets, Dr. Matawalle charged them to embody the core military values of Professionalism, Teamwork, and Integrity throughout their careers. He reminded them that their commissioning into the Nigerian Navy is not just a personal achievement but a solemn commitment to serve and protect the nation with honor.
“Let your service be guided by discipline, loyalty, and unwavering allegiance to the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” the Minister declared. He further encouraged the cadets to uphold the highest ethical standards and remain resolute in their duty to Nigeria, even in the face of adversity.
Dr. Matawalle also used the occasion to commend the Chief of Naval Staff for his visionary leadership, which he credited with driving the Navy’s modernization efforts. He expressed appreciation for the Commandant and training staff of the Nigerian Naval College for their dedication to excellence in military education and for producing well-trained officers capable of meeting contemporary security challenges.
The event not only celebrated the successful completion of rigorous training by the new officers but also served as a reaffirmation of the Federal Government’s resolve to develop a robust, resilient, and forward-looking Nigerian Navy.