By Abbas Nazil
In a major move to strengthen maritime security and combat economic sabotage, the Nigerian Navy is set to commission three newly acquired patrol vessels and three helicopters as part of events marking its 69th anniversary celebration.
The Chief of Policy and Plans at Naval Headquarters, Rear Admiral Ibrahim Dewu, announced this at an international press briefing in Abuja, preparatory to the anniversary.
The assets, which include NNS Shere, NNS Faro, and NNS Ikogosi—acquired from Singapore and South Korea—are designed to enhance the Navy’s operational capabilities, particularly in tackling crude oil theft and piracy across Nigeria’s territorial waters and the Gulf of Guinea.
Each of the new ships is 38 meters long with an endurance of five days, specifically built for rapid-response patrols in Nigeria’s littoral waters and 24-nautical-mile contiguous zone.
Alongside these vessels, three AgustaWestland 109 Trekker helicopters are to be inducted into the naval air fleet, bringing the total number of aircraft to 14.
The helicopters are intended to provide critical aerial support for patrols, enhance surveillance, and aid interdiction missions across the country’s vast maritime domain.
These assets are to be officially commissioned during the Navy Week 2025, scheduled from May 23 to June 1, with the grand commissioning ceremony taking place on May 31 at NNS Beecroft, Apapa, Lagos.
The weeklong celebration includes a range of public engagement activities, such as community medical outreaches, ship tours, sports events, interfaith services, and a ceremonial sunset parade and dinner at Naval Dockyard, Victoria Island, on June 1.
