“This milestone reflects our renewed drive to strengthen maritime policing, improve rescue and patrol operations, and secure the nation’s blue economy” – IGP
IGP Commissions 31 Gunboats to Strengthen Maritime Security
Reaffirms Nigeria Police Commitment to Securing Waterways
The Inspector General of Police, Dr. Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, on Thursday commissioned 31 newly acquired gunboats to enhance the Nigeria Police Force’s maritime security operations.
The commissioning ceremony, held in Lagos, represents a significant boost to the Force’s Marine Unit and a strategic step toward securing Nigeria’s coastal and inland waterways. The move is aimed at curbing criminal activity, including piracy, smuggling, and economic sabotage, while safeguarding critical national infrastructure and supporting trade logistics.
Speaking at the event, IGP Egbetokun described the acquisition as a timely response to the evolving security threats within Nigeria’s maritime domain. He emphasized that the new vessels, fitted with advanced navigation and communication systems, will improve the operational capabilities of the Marine Unit.
“This milestone reflects our renewed drive to strengthen maritime policing, improve rescue and patrol operations, and secure the nation’s blue economy,” the IGP stated.
Top police officials present at the ceremony included DIG Yakubu Kwazi (Operations), AIG Adegoke Fayoade (Zone 2), AIG Funsho Adegboye (PMF), AIG Tunji Rilwan Disu (SPU), and ACP Chima Ogarashi, Force Marine Officer. The event also saw participation from key maritime stakeholders, including representatives from the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) and Sensor and Safety Ltd.
IGP Egbetokun reiterated the Police Force’s commitment to inter-agency collaboration, pledging ongoing partnerships with maritime agencies to ensure safe and uninterrupted operations across Nigeria’s waterways.
He charged Marine Unit officers to maximize the use of the gunboats and remain vigilant in delivering on their mandate.
The commissioning marks a pivotal step in modernizing Nigeria’s maritime security infrastructure and reflects the Force’s proactive approach to addressing the country’s dynamic security challenges.
