The Federal Government, has reaffirmed its commitment to maritime security and blue economy.
The Minister of Defence, Gen. Christopher Musa, gave the reassurance, while speaking as a Special Guest of Honour at the 70th Anniversary Ceremonial Sunset Dinner and Awards of the Nigerian Navy in Lagos.
This is contained in a statement on Friday in Abuja, by his Special Assistant on Media, Leah Katung-Babatunde.
The event is the grand finale of a week-long celebration marking the navy’s seven decades of service to the nation.
Musa said the federal government was committed to equipping the Nigerian navy with the resources, capabilities, and enabling environment required to build a modern, technology-driven force capable of safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime interests.
He said the future of the navy laid in leveraging innovation, advanced surveillance systems, intelligence capabilities, unmanned technologies, cyber defence tools, and data-driven operations to address evolving security threats.
“The future of the Nigerian navy lies in its ability to harness cutting-edge technology and strengthen collaboration with regional and international partners.
“A modern, technology-driven navy will enhance maritime domain awareness, improve operational effectiveness, and contribute significantly to collective security in the Gulf of Guinea and beyond,” he said.
The minister commended the Chief of the Naval Staff, officers, ratings, and civilian staff for their professionalism, discipline, and resilience over the past 70 years.
He described the service as a model of organisational excellence, and expressed appreciation to the country’s international partners for their support in promoting maritime security and stability.
He noted that the navy’s operations, has had a direct impact on Nigeria’s blue economy by protecting sea lanes, offshore oil and gas infrastructure, as well as other critical maritime assets.
He said that the service remained at the forefront of efforts to combat piracy, crude oil theft, illegal fishing, and other maritime crimes.
“Through active participation in internal security operations and support to sister services and security agencies, the navy has played a vital role in maintaining peace and stability, thereby creating the secure environment necessary for economic growth and national development,” he said.
