The Commander of Nigerian Navy Ship BEECROFT, Commodore A. Adams-Aliu, on Wednesday paid a courtesy visit to the Oba of Lagos, Oba Rilwanu Babatunde Osuolale Aremu Akiolu at his palace in Isale Eko ahead of the Nigerian Navy’s 70th anniversary celebrations scheduled to hold later this month.
The visit formed part of preparations for the week-long commemoration and served as a formal invitation to the Lagos monarch to participate in the anniversary activities. The celebrations are expected to draw military officials, foreign naval representatives, government dignitaries and maritime stakeholders from across the country.
Speaking during the visit, Commodore Adams-Aliu described the anniversary as a defining moment for the Nigerian Navy, marking seven decades of maritime operations, national defence and regional security engagement. He said the service remains committed to strengthening cooperation with traditional institutions, particularly in coastal communities where maritime security and economic activities are closely linked.
The naval chief noted that partnerships with community leaders remain critical in addressing security concerns within the maritime domain and in sustaining public trust in naval operations.
In his remarks, the Oba of Lagos commended the Nigerian Navy for its’ role in protecting Nigeria’s territorial waters and maintaining safety along the nation’s coastline. He expressed appreciation for the visit and pledged continued support for initiatives aimed at promoting peace, security and unity within the maritime sector.
The Nigerian Navy’s 70th anniversary celebration is scheduled to hold from May 29 to June 4 and will feature ceremonial parades, community outreach programmes and an International Fleet Review at the Eko Atlantic waterfront. The event is also expected to showcase the Navy’s operational capabilities and historical contributions to Nigeria’s security architecture.
Established in 1956, the Nigerian Navy has played a central role in safeguarding the country’s maritime interests, combating piracy and supporting regional security operations across the Gulf of Guinea.
