By Mariam Sanni, Abuja
Global Fire Power Report of 2026 ranked the Nigerian Navy as the strongest naval fleet on the African continent, a testament to its fleet recapitalisation efforts.
This was made known by the Chief of Policy and Plans, CPPLANS, Rear Admiral Akinola Olodude, during a press briefing as part of activities celebrating the Nigerian Navy`s 70th Anniversary in Abuja.
Olodude explained that in line with the presidential directive to boost crude oil production to three billion barrels per day by 2030, the Nigerian Navy has been leading anti-crude oil theft and anti-illegal refined operations.
He added that the navy has collaborated with sister services and security agencies which led to an increase in average crude oil production from 1.258 billion barrels per day in January 2023 to 1.71 million barrels per day as at April.
He highlighted that the navy has embarked on shipbuilding, constructing five vessels since 2010, including a ferry, a top boat, and three seaboard defense boats.
The CPPLANS noted that the Naval Shipyard Limited in Waterport is constructing a 27-meter ferry for the Akwa Ibom State government, while the Naval Contract Limited in Lagos is constructing two civil defense boats.
He revealed that the Nigerian Navy has refitted three warships for the Benin Navy between 2024 and 2025 and is currently refitting three more for Penawa Navy.
He also mentioned that the navy has been involved in internal security, counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency operations, with the Nigerian Navy Special Boat Service playing a critical role.
The rear admiral said the navy has evolved from a restricted mandate to a formidable force, projecting power across West Africa, the Gulf of Guinea and sub-Saharan Africa.
He noted that during the Nigerian Civil War (1967-1970), it executed blockades, secured vital sea lanes and conducted amphibious operations, contributing to national unity.
Rear admiral Olodude stated that the navy supported the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon in the 1970s, delivering medical supplies and logistical support to Nigerian peacekeeping forces.
He mentioned that during the economic intervention in Liberia (1990-1999), the navy enforced maritime embargoes, provided logistical support and conducted humanitarian operations, saving thousands of lives.
Speaking on the activities highlighted for the anniversary, he stated that the Nigerian Navy has planned various community outreach activities, including a seed experience for 25 citizens and a children’s day celebration.
He added that foreign naval personnel from Benin, Brazil, Cameroon and Ghana will participate in the celebrations, with sporting novelty matches and an icebreaker event.
“The Nigerian Navy will host heads of African navies, African air forces and international and regional organisations, culminating in an international fleet review on June 1.
The combined maritime task force, under the auspices of the African Union Peace and Security Council, will be operationalized during the fleet review, combating transnational organized crimes in the Gulf of Guinea.
‘’The Nigerian Navy will host the sixth Power for Africa symposium, starting on June 2 and continuing until June 3.
‘’The symposium, which rotates between South Africa and Nigeria, aims to address various security and development issues across the continent.
‘’The final events include a gala dinner at the Eco Convention Center and the sixth Power for Africa symposium, highlighting the Nigerian Navy’s contributions and future plans.
‘’The celebrations will conclude with a focus on the Nigerian Navy’s strategic role in regional and global peacekeeping efforts, emphasizing its institutional resonance and strategic accountability,’’he mentioned .
Rear Admiral Ololude the anniversary is highlighting navy evolution from a small coastal defense force to a formidable regional power.
The CPPLANS pointed out that since established in 1956, it has played crucial roles in various conflicts and peacekeeping missions, including the Nigerian Civil War, UN missions in Lebanon, and operations in Liberia and Sierra Leone.
According to him, the navy has also contributed to Nigeria’s crude oil production, increasing it from 1.258 billion barrels per day in January 2023 to 1.71 million barrels per day as of April 2026.
The anniversary will feature various events, including international fleet reviews and symposiums, showcasing its strategic importance and achievements.
