Navy Deploys 326-Member Marine Force to Safeguard $16.6bn Offshore Assets
The Nigerian Navy has unveiled and deployed a 326-member Marine Force to protect an estimated $16.6 billion offshore oil and gas investments in the Niger Delta, marking a significant boost to the nation’s maritime security framework.
The newly established unit, comprising highly trained marines with aerial, ground and amphibious capabilities, is also tasked with reinforcing internal security operations, particularly in riverine areas and remote hinterlands.
Unveiling the force, the Chief of Defence Staff, Olufemi Oluyede, described the development as a defining milestone in Nigeria’s maritime security architecture. He charged the personnel to remain focused and professional, noting that the security environment would demand adaptability and resilience.
“You have undergone rigorous physical conditioning, mental resilience training and advanced tactical exercises aligned with Special Forces Tier 2 standards,” he said. “The adversities you will face will test your mettle and strain your resolve. Remain intellectually agile, tactically innovative and decisive. Let your conduct reflect integrity, professionalism and patriotism.”
The Defence Chief emphasized Nigeria’s strategic position within the Gulf of Guinea, a vital corridor for global maritime commerce and a hub of critical oil and gas resources. He expressed confidence that the Marine Force would strengthen maritime stability and safeguard the nation’s economic interests.
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He further underscored the need for sustained collaboration among security agencies, maritime stakeholders and coastal communities to enhance operational effectiveness and bolster public confidence.
The Chief of Naval Staff, Idi Abbas, disclosed that the Nigerian Navy Marines was formally established on June 1, 2025, with the first batch of trainees commencing instruction on August 14, 2025. Following six months of Special Operations Tier 2 training, the unit is now fully prepared for deployment.
Also speaking, the Commandant of the Nigerian Navy Marines Training Centre, Olayinka Aliyu, stated that the force was structured as a combat-ready formation capable of executing operations across maritime, riverine, littoral and inland terrains.
He explained that the comprehensive training programme covered endurance drills, amphibious manoeuvres, precision marksmanship, close-quarters combat, survival techniques, small-team tactics and multi-domain integration. The land and jungle warfare phase, conducted in Ogun State, was designed to produce physically robust, tactically versatile and mentally resilient marines.
According to him, the rigorous and intensive regimen ensures that the Marine Force is fully equipped to confront evolving security threats and protect Nigeria’s critical offshore infrastructure.
The deployment of the Marine Force underscores the Nigerian Navy’s commitment to securing the nation’s maritime domain and reinforcing stability in the Gulf of Guinea.
By PRNigeria
