In a decisive move to strengthen maritime security and safeguard Nigeria’s waterways, the Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, on Thursday, May 5, 2025, commissioned 31 newly acquired operational gunboats for the Force Marine Unit.
The unveiling, held at a formal ceremony in Lagos, marked a major step in the Nigeria Police Force’s efforts to address rising security challenges in the nation’s maritime domain.
Accompanied by top-ranking officers including the Deputy Inspector General of Police in charge of Operations, DIG Yakubu Kwazi, and other senior officials such as AIG Adegoke Fayoade (Zone 2), AIG Funsho Adegboye (PMF), AIG Tunji Rilwan Disu (SPU), and Force Marine Officer ACP Chima Ogarashi, the IGP highlighted the strategic importance of the acquisition.
Also in attendance were representatives from key maritime agencies, including the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), and private sector stakeholders such as Chief Oguntade Majekodunmi, CEO of Sensor and Safety Ltd, represented by Mr. Babalola Tunde.
In his address, IGP Egbetokun described the deployment of the 31 high-powered gunboats as a “milestone” and a “symbol of our renewed drive to strengthen maritime policing architecture.”
He noted that the vessels, fitted with advanced navigation and communication systems, are part of a broader strategy to counter emerging maritime threats, improve patrol operations, and protect national infrastructure along Nigeria’s coastal waters.
“This investment is a strategic response to the evolving dynamics of our maritime environment. It reflects our unwavering commitment to securing the nation’s waterways, combating economic sabotage, and ensuring smooth port operations”, Egbetokun said.
The IGP also reaffirmed the Force’s readiness to collaborate with other security agencies and maritime stakeholders in achieving a unified front against criminal activities at sea.
He charged officers of the Force Marine Unit to utilise the gunboats efficiently and responsibly to restore confidence in the country’s maritime safety.
The commissioning coma just days after IGP Egbetokun hosted the CEO of the Nigerian Shippers Council at Force Headquarters, where he had given firm assurances on improving maritime security nationwide.
With the commissioning of the gunboats, Nigeria’s law enforcement infrastructure takes a significant leap forward in the ongoing battle against piracy, smuggling, and other maritime crimes that threaten national economic growth and security.
