In a significant move to enhance Nigeria’s maritime security and operational capacity, the Nigerian Navy has inducted three new warships and three helicopters into its fleet. The induction ceremony, held on Saturday 31st May, 2025, at the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) BEECROFT in Apapa, Lagos, was part of the activities marking the Navy’s 69th anniversary.
The new assets include three Fast Patrol Boats—NNS SHERE, NNS FARO, and NNS IKOGOSI—as well as three Augusta Westland AW109ST Trekker Helicopters. These additions are designed to strengthen the Navy’s capabilities in combating piracy, oil theft, illegal fishing, and other maritime crimes.
Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, described the induction as a milestone in Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to protect its maritime domain and economic interests. He emphasized the strategic importance of the sea to Nigeria’s prosperity and reiterated the government’s commitment to equipping its security institutions.
Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, noted that the new platforms would significantly boost operational efficiency. The patrol boats are equipped with advanced surveillance systems and rapid-response capabilities, while the helicopters offer long-range surveillance and endurance to support maritime domain awareness and quick response operations.
He also revealed that more vessels are expected to join the fleet later this year, including two 76-meter High Endurance Offshore Patrol Vessels from Turkey, three 46-meter Fast Patrol Boats from China, and additional tug boats.
Highlighting international collaboration, the Korean Ambassador to Nigeria, Vice Admiral Kim Pankyu (rtd), stated that one of the vessels was a donation from the Korean Navy, underscoring strong diplomatic and military ties between the two nations since 1980.
The induction marks another step in the Navy’s fleet recapitalisation strategy aimed at ensuring Nigeria’s maritime environment remains secure and conducive to economic growth.
