Nigerian Navy to Unveil 3 Ships, 3 Helicopters to Boost Sea, Air Power at 69th Anniversary
The Nigerian Navy today has announced plans to commission three newly acquired ships and three helicopters as part of activities marking its 69th Anniversary celebration, scheduled to hold from May 23 to June 1, 2025.
Speaking during an international press conference at Naval Headquarters in Abuja, Rear Admiral Ibrahim Abdullahi Dewu, Chief of Policy and Plans, revealed that the new platforms are part of ongoing efforts to enhance the Navy’s maritime and aerial capabilities in response to Nigeria’s evolving security challenges.
According to him, the three patrol vessels—NNS SHERE, NNS FARO, and NNS IKOGOSI—were acquired from Singapore and South Korea, and arrived in Nigeria in December 2024.
Hr said each vessel, approximately 38 meters in length, is equipped for seaward defense within the littoral zone and can be deployed beyond Nigeria’s contiguous waters when necessary.
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“These ships will significantly strengthen our presence at sea and improve the Navy’s ability to conduct surveillance, patrols, and anti-crude oil theft operations,” Rear Admiral Dewu said.
In addition to the ships, the Navy will also commission three AgustaWestland 109 Trekker helicopters, bringing its total helicopter fleet to 14. The air assets are expected to exponentially boost the Navy’s reconnaissance and rapid response operations, particularly in hard-to-reach coastal areas.
This fleet expansion comes as the Navy intensifies its efforts under Operation Delta Sanity II, which has already yielded significant results in the fight against oil theft and illegal refining activities.
The commissioning of the new ships and helicopters is slated for Saturday, May 31, 2025, at NNS BEECROFT, Apapa, Lagos. The event will also feature the opening of junior officers’ accommodations, as the Navy continues to improve the welfare and capacity of its personnel.
Rear Admiral Dewu emphasized that these acquisitions reflect the strategic vision of the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, and reaffirm the Navy’s commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime interests.
By PRNigeria
