The Nigerian Navy ended its 70th Anniversary celebrations on Thursday night, June 4, 2026, with a Ceremonial Sunset parade and award night at Naval Dockyard, Victoria Island, Lagos, followed by a dinner at Eko Convention Centre. Minister of Defence Gen. Christopher Gwabin Musa, Lagos Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, service chiefs, former Chiefs of Naval Staff, captains of industry, and foreign naval heads witnessed the solemn lowering of the ensign and band retreat. The Minister described the Navy as a professional force and “epitome of organisational prowess” that has secured vital sealanes, protected offshore oil and gas assets, and combated piracy and illegal fishing, boosting Nigeria’s blue economy.
Chief of Naval Staff Vice Admiral Idi Abbas said the 70 years marked a transformation from 250 personnel with a few patrol boats to a fleet of over 152 vessels of various classes. He credited the growth to structural evolution that improved capacity to tackle maritime challenges, noting that stability in the Gulf of Guinea lowered global insurance premiums for cargo and helped maritime revenue rise from about $700 billion in 2023 to $1.8 trillion by 2025. Rear Admiral A. I. Olodude said the awards recognized officers and ratings for gallantry, innovation, and selfless service under the CNS’s leadership.
Thirty-one personnel received awards across seven categories. Honourees included Commodores MM Braimah, AO Odejobi, and Toju Vincent for Long Flying Medals, presented by former CNSs Vice Admirals Zubairu Gambo and Jibrilla Ayinla. Seaman Fireman Alhassan was commended for injuries sustained fighting Boko Haram under Operations HADIN KAI and UDOKA II, while widows of fallen heroes were also recognized. The night closed with anniversary cake-cutting, traditional dances, and performances by Sarkin Dariya and Waje.
