Nigerian Navy to Unveil New Platforms on 69th Anniversary

The Nigerian Navy is gearing up to unveil a range of new assets and infrastructure as part of its 69th anniversary, Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, announced on Sunday.

Speaking at a special church service held at Our Lady Star of the Sea Catholic Church, Navy Town, Lagos, Ogalla revealed that the navy will be commissioning three new ships, three helicopters, several accommodation plots, and office blocks.

The ceremony is part of the navy’s annual anniversary celebrations, which commemorate its founding and achievements over the years.

According to Ogalla, the new assets and infrastructure are part of the navy’s strategic objectives, which focus on capacity building, platform acquisition, infrastructure development, and welfare of personnel and civilians.

“While we maintain development and infrastructure, we must remain fair, secure, and stable through professional conduct,” he emphasized.

The Chief of Naval Staff also highlighted the importance of welfare, stating that it remains a priority alongside boosting efficiency through infrastructure, platforms, and tools needed for operational effectiveness.

He acknowledged the challenges faced by naval personnel in terms of accommodation, saying that shelter is a basic human need and efforts will be made to address the issue.

In his remarks, Ogalla also stressed the importance of remaining peaceful and law-abiding while upholding principles that promote national unity and harmony.

He emphasized the navy’s commitment to enhancing national security, citing the establishment of a Special Operations Command in Makurdi and the formation of the Nigerian Navy Marines.

“These initiatives aim to create an agile force for expeditionary warfare, addressing maritime threats and supporting land operations,” he explained.

Ogalla assured that the navy will continue to improve its operational strategies to tackle criminal activities both at sea and on land.

The Chief of Naval Staff also reaffirmed the navy’s role as a regional power in the Gulf of Guinea, ensuring safe maritime communication routes. He expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for his unwavering support, noting that all navy-related requests have been treated with urgency and importance.

“We’ll keep supporting land-based security operations under the president’s agenda for economic growth and national sovereignty,” Ogalla added.

In his sermon, Rev. Father Richmond Diala urged naval personnel to stay united, protect one another, and always thank God for His protection. “It’s by God’s grace we’re alive today. Others, more deserving, are not where we are,” he said.

Diala encouraged continued prayers for Nigeria and the Navy, asking God to strengthen their efforts in securing land and maritime domains.

The church service was attended by senior naval officers, personnel, and their families, and marked the beginning of the navy’s anniversary celebrations.