The Navy is buying new ships and helicopters

• The Nigerian Navy has announced the acquisition of three ships and two helicopters, which will enhance anti-oil theft operations, with more ships arriving soon
• Vice Admiral Ogalla emphasized local shipbuilding, essential to the development of the Navy and the blue economy, which is in line with the president’s agenda

The Nigerian Navy has announced the acquisition of three ships and two helicopters to enhance its operations, particularly in combating oil theft in the Niger Delta. These new vessels will enter the Navy inventory on May 30, 2024. Additionally, the Navy expects to have five operational ships from China and Turkey by the third quarter of this year.

Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, Chief of Naval Staff, made the announcement during an interfaith service held in Abuja as part of the 68th anniversary of the Nigerian Navy.

Ogalla highlighted the Navy’s fleet renewal efforts, emphasizing the importance of new acquisitions. He stated: “We also want to take this opportunity to commend our efforts, particularly in fleet renewal. May 30 this year We are putting three more ships and two more helicopters into service. This is in addition to several other OPVs from around the world. We have two OPVs coming from Turkey, scheduled for delivery in the third quarter of this year; we have three from China.”

Ogalla explained the Navy’s commitment to local shipbuilding and repair, discussing steps taken to build ships locally. He emphasized that this initiative is of key importance for the development of the Navy and the country’s blue economy. He said: “Our local shipbuilding efforts have become the focus of my vision for the Nigerian Navy. This is because we recognize that the only way to grow our Navy is to ensure local involvement in all key areas of development. Of course, you know, the shipbuilding industry is part of it. We also recognize that shipbuilding and repair will effectively contribute to the overall blue economy, which is part of the presidential administration’s agenda.”

Ogalla also encouraged Navy personnel to redouble their efforts to achieve greater achievements in the future. He added: “To this end, I urge everyone to work hard and redouble their efforts so that we can achieve even more in the years to come. Let’s make sure we have a fleet we can be proud of.”

New acquisitions and local shipbuilding efforts underscore the Nigerian Navy’s commitment to strengthening its capabilities and contributing to the country’s maritime security and economic growth.