The Nigerian Navy has intensified its efforts to secure the nation’s waters, arresting 333 vessels over a six-year period for violations ranging from crude oil theft and piracy to illegal fishing and bunker operations.
This disclosure was made by the Flag Officer Commanding, Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral Gregory Oamen, during the 3rd MARAN Annual Lecture (MAMAL 2025) in Lagos on Wednesday.
The lecture, organised by the Maritime Reporters Association of Nigeria (MARAN), focused on “Addressing the burden of war risk insurance on Nigeria’s maritime trade,” a pressing concern that continues to affect shipping and commerce in Nigerian waters.
Rear Admiral Oamen, represented at the event by the Commanding Officer of NNS Thunder, Captain Olanrewaju Oginni, highlighted the Navy’s operational achievements over the last decade.
“Within the last 10 years, the Nigerian Navy has acquired 21 new vessels, with additional ships currently under construction.
Our fleet expansion is part of a broader strategic effort to ensure maritime safety and project Nigeria’s naval presence across regional waters,” he said.
He also emphasised progress in indigenous shipbuilding, noting that three vessels have already been constructed domestically, with two more underway.
However, Oamen acknowledged persistent logistical challenges, stating: “Despite acquiring more vessels, we currently face limitations in operational deployment due to inadequate logistics.
Sustaining continuous naval presence comes at a significant cost, and the current funding falls below what is required to fully meet our constitutional responsibilities.”
The Navy’s crackdown has not only targeted illegal activities but also enhanced maritime security along Nigeria’s coastline.
Rear Admiral Oamen stressed that forward operating bases have been strategically established along the nation’s coastal belt, improving rapid response capabilities and ensuring a constant naval presence.
“The arrested vessels were handed over to various government agencies for appropriate legal and administrative actions,” Oamen said, highlighting the collaborative effort between the Navy and other federal institutions in safeguarding maritime assets.
During the lecture, MARAN President Godfrey Bivbere reiterated the importance of strategic measures to reduce Nigeria’s “war risk” designation, which has long inflated insurance premiums and hampered maritime trade.
“Our goal is to explore actionable solutions, foster transparency, and galvanise collective efforts to lift the war risk designation that continues to shadow Nigerian waters,” Bivbere said.
The lecture also spotlighted the broader economic implications of naval security.
A secure maritime environment reduces the risk of commercial losses, encourages foreign investment, and boosts Nigeria’s standing in the African and global shipping industry.
Analysts note that Nigeria’s oil exports, import cargo, and coastal trade corridors rely heavily on a robust naval presence to deter criminal activities that threaten economic stability.
Rear Admiral Oamen stressed that the Navy’s ongoing commitment includes enhancing indigenous shipbuilding capabilities, with the ultimate goal of creating a self-sufficient fleet that can meet both domestic and regional security needs.
He further revealed plans to expand forward operating bases, improve logistical support, and modernise surveillance and patrolling systems.
Experts believe that such investments in maritime security and fleet development are pivotal for Nigeria to capitalise on its Blue Economy potential.
Strengthening naval operations, coupled with robust law enforcement and technological upgrades, could transform Nigeria’s coastal and inland waterways into safer, more profitable trade corridors.
While the Nigerian Navy has made significant strides in curbing illegal activities at sea, the challenges of logistics, funding, and resource deployment remain.
Nonetheless, the strategic acquisition of new vessels, expansion of forward operating bases, and local shipbuilding initiatives demonstrate a strong commitment to maritime security, regional trade facilitation, and the protection of Nigeria’s sovereign waters.
Through sustained operations, collaboration with federal agencies, and targeted policy interventions, the Nigerian Navy continues to play a critical role in ensuring safer maritime trade routes and a more secure economic environment.