By Harriet Tornguvan
The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd), has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to strengthening the Nigerian Navy through enhanced funding, modern technology, and improved operational capabilities to safeguard the nation’s maritime interests.
General Musa made the commitment while speaking as the Special Guest of Honour at the Nigerian Navy’s 70th Anniversary Ceremonial Sunset Dinner and Awards Night held in Lagos. The event marked the grand finale of a week long celebration commemorating seven decades of the Navy’s service to the nation.
According to a statement issued by the Minister’s Special Assistant on Media, Leah Katung-Babatunde, the Defence Minister emphasized that the future of maritime security lies in innovation and the adoption of advanced technologies.
He said the Navy must continue to leverage cutting-edge surveillance systems, intelligence gathering capabilities, cyber defence tools, unmanned technologies, and data-driven operations to effectively counter emerging security threats.
“The future of the Nigerian Navy lies in its ability to harness cutting edge technology and strengthen collaboration with regional and international partners.
"A modern, technology driven Navy will enhance maritime domain awareness, improve operational effectiveness, and contribute significantly to collective security in the Gulf of Guinea and beyond,” he stated.
The Minister commended the Chief of the Naval Staff, officers, ratings, and civilian personnel of the Navy for their professionalism, discipline, and resilience over the past 70 years, describing the Service as a model of organisational excellence.
He also expressed appreciation to Nigeria’s international partners for their continued support in advancing maritime security and stability.
General Musa noted that the Navy’s sustained operations have contributed significantly to the growth of Nigeria’s blue economy by protecting vital maritime assets, including sea lanes and offshore oil and gas infrastructure.
According to him, the Service remains at the forefront of efforts to combat piracy, crude oil theft, illegal fishing, and other maritime crimes that threaten national economic interests.
He further highlighted the Navy’s contributions to internal security operations, stressing that its collaboration with other security agencies has helped maintain peace and stability across the country.
“Through active participation in internal security operations and support to sister services and security agencies, the Navy has played a vital role in maintaining peace and stability, thereby creating the secure environment necessary for economic growth and national development,” he said.
The Defence Minister also congratulated officers and ratings who received awards during the anniversary celebration, including personnel honoured posthumously for their sacrifices and dedication to duty.
He said their selfless service reflects the highest traditions of the Nigerian Navy and serves as an inspiration to future generations of naval personnel.
Speaking on the significance of the Ceremonial Sunset, General Musa described it as one of the Navy’s most enduring traditions worldwide, symbolising duty, honour, and the seamless transfer of responsibility from one watch to another.
“As individual duties come to an end, the Navy’s vigilance continues uninterrupted in service to the nation,” he noted.
As the Nigerian Navy marks its 70th anniversary, the Defence Minister joined Nigerians in celebrating the milestone and commended all serving and retired personnel for their unwavering commitment to the security, unity, and prosperity of the country.
