The Nigerian Navy has ushered in a transformative chapter in its history during a symbolic Sunset Dinner at the Naval Dockyard, Victoria Island, Lagos, marking the grand finale of its 69th anniversary celebrations.
At the heart of the evening’s proceedings was the official unveiling of two elite formations. The Special Operations Command and the Marine Command by the Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Matawalle. Conceived as strategic responses to emerging security threats, both commands are positioned to strengthen Nigeria’s capacity to confront terrorism, piracy, and other maritime crimes.
The Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, formally presented Command Flags to the newly appointed leaders of the two units. Their mandate, signals the Navy’s shift toward precision, adaptability, and integrated operations in both inland and coastal maritime spaces.
The Chief of Operations, Rear Admiral Eugenio Olusegun Ferreira, emphasized that the Special Operations and Marine Commands are designed to enhance rapid response capabilities and inter-agency collaboration. The creation of these formations, which were approved earlier in May 2025, marks a calculated effort by the Navy to remain ahead of evolving security dynamics across Nigeria’s maritime and riverine spaces.
Personnel from the new units were showcased in combat gear, symbolizing a modernized approach to national defence and readiness.
Adding to the evening’s highlights, Dr. Matawalle also unveiled the official logo for the Navy’s upcoming 70th anniversary, reinforcing the institution’s blend of tradition and innovation.
In attendance were the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Gwabin Musa; representatives of the Service Chiefs from the Army and Air Force; Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun; and Mr. Tola Ayinde, Chief of Staff to the Governor of Lagos State, representing Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.
Other dignitaries included the Chairman of the Senate Committee on the Navy, Senator Otunba Gbenga Daniel; former Chief of Naval Staff and current Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Admiral Ibok Ette Ibas (rtd); former Chief of General Staff, Commodore Ebitu Ukiwe (rtd); senior Naval officers, and members of the diplomatic corps.
The establishment of the new commands marks a clear step forward in redefining naval strategy, reinforcing Nigeria’s position as a regional maritime power prepared for contemporary and future security challenges.
