Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa, has reaffirmed the commitment of the Federal Government of Nigeria to promote maritime security and blue economy.
Speaking as a Special Guest of Honour at the 70th Anniversary Ceremonial Sunset Dinner and Awards of the Nigerian Navy in Lagos, Musa said that the government was committed to equipping the Nigerian navy with the resources, capabilities, and he enabling environment required to build a modern, technology-driven force capable of safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime interests.
He said that the future of the navy was in leveraging innovation, advanced surveillance systems, intelligence capabilities, unmanned technologies, cyber defence tools, and data-driven operations to address evolving 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,” the statement by the minister’s Special Assistant on Media, Leah Katung-Babatunde, quoted General Musa as saying.
He described the service as a model of organisational excellence and expressed appreciation to the country’s international partners for their support in promoting maritime security and stability.
He noted that the Nigerian Navy’s operations, has had a direct impact on Nigeria’s blue economy by protecting sea lanes, offshore oil and gas infrastructure, as well as other critical maritime assets.
According to him, the service remained at the forefront of efforts to combat piracy, crude oil theft, illegal fishing, and other maritime crimes.
“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 added.
The minister commended the Chief of the Naval Staff, officers, ratings, and civilian staff for their professionalism, discipline, and resilience over the past 70 years.
GIK/APA