The Nigerian Navy has officially flagged off its 69th Anniversary celebration, with a line-up of events set to take place from Friday, May 23 to Sunday, June 1, 2025. Speaking at an international press conference in Abuja, Rear Admiral Ibrahim Abdullahi Dewu, Chief of Policy and Plans at Naval Headquarters, highlighted key achievements and activities planned for the milestone celebration.
Rear Admiral Dewu, who represented the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, noted that this year’s celebration, popularly known as “Navy Week,” will reflect both the Navy’s operational successes and its deepening international partnerships.
He announced that the Nigerian Navy, under the leadership of Vice Admiral Ogalla, has reached peak operational readiness, particularly in tackling crude oil theft. Through Operation Delta Sanity, launched in January 2024 and reactivated as Delta Sanity II in December 2024, the Navy made significant strides. In 2024 alone, 215 suspects and 26 vessels were apprehended, while 468 illegal refinery sites were dismantled. Since January 2025, over 103 illegal sites have been destroyed and 34 suspects arrested.
“These efforts have positively impacted Nigeria’s oil production in line with the President’s directive to curb crude oil theft and boost exports,” Dewu stated.
Highlighting maritime security, Rear Admiral Dewu credited the Navy’s Falcon Eye and Regional Maritime Awareness systems with maintaining Nigeria’s zero-piracy rating from the International Maritime Bureau. He also referenced Nigeria’s growing leadership role in regional security, citing the 8th Gulf of Guinea Navies Symposium held in Abuja and the signing of a strategic sealift agreement with the African Union in February 2025. 
In terms of capacity building, Dewu revealed that a new Special Operations Command will soon be established in Makurdi, Benue State, to bolster security in Nigeria’s Middle Belt.
Fleet expansion also forms a core part of the celebration. Three new patrol vessels—NNS Shere, NNS Faro, and NNS Ikogosi—and three Agusta Westland 109 Trekker helicopters will be commissioned. The Navy’s fleet now boasts 14 helicopters, enhancing its operational reach and maritime surveillance capability.
The anniversary activities kick off with Juma’at Prayers on May 23 in Abuja and an interdenominational service on May 25 in Lagos. Other events include medical outreach programs, a boat race, the commissioning of junior officers’ accommodation, and the opening of the newly remodeled auditorium at the International Maritime Institute of Nigeria.
The week will culminate with the commissioning of the new assets at NNS BEECROFT, Apapa on May 31, and a Ceremonial Sunset and Dinner at the Naval Dockyard, Victoria Island, Lagos, on June 1.
Rear Admiral Dewu extended a public invitation to Nigerians to visit Navy ships across the country and participate in the celebrations.
“We invite all Nigerians and our international partners to join us in celebrating the growth and accomplishments of the Nigerian Navy. Your support and coverage are vital to our continued success,” he said.
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