In a bold move to reinforce maritime security and improve policing across Nigeria’s waterways, the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, officially commissioned 31 newly acquired operational gunboats on Thursday, June 5, 2025.
The commissioning ceremony was held in Lagos and marks a significant investment by the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) in modernizing its maritime capabilities.
The newly launched boats will serve under the Force Marine Unit, which plays a crucial role in safeguarding Nigeria’s inland and coastal waters. This development is seen as a strategic effort to enhance the operational readiness of the Force to combat crimes such as piracy, illegal bunkering, smuggling, and economic sabotage within Nigeria’s vast maritime domain.
Strengthening National Security Infrastructure
Speaking at the event, IGP Egbetokun described the acquisition and deployment of the gunboats as a timely and strategic response to the evolving security threats in the country’s maritime environment. He noted that the move is part of a broader reform agenda aimed at improving the efficiency and effectiveness of the Nigeria Police Force, especially in specialized units like the Marine Unit.
“The deployment of these assets symbolises our renewed commitment to strengthening our maritime policing framework, countering emerging threats, and enhancing rescue and patrol operations on our waterways,” the IGP stated.
He also reaffirmed the Force’s determination to collaborate closely with other security agencies, maritime stakeholders, and government institutions to ensure the safety and security of Nigeria’s waterways, which are vital to economic activity and national development.
High-Profile Attendance and Cross-Sectoral Collaboration
The occasion was graced by several senior police officers, including:
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DIG Yakubu Kwazi, mni – Deputy Inspector General in charge of Operations
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AIG Adegoke Fayoade – Assistant Inspector General, Zone 2
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AIG Funsho Adegboye – AIG, Police Mobile Force
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AIG Tunji Rilwan Disu – AIG, Special Protection Unit
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ACP Chima Ogarashi – Force Marine Officer
Also present were representatives from key maritime agencies and the private sector, reflecting the multi-agency approach being adopted to tackle maritime insecurity. Notably, the CEO of Sensor and Safety Ltd, Chief Oguntade Majekodunmi, was ably represented by Mr. Babalola Tunde, and officials from the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) were also in attendance.
Technological Upgrade and Strategic Outlook
The 31 newly inducted gunboats are reportedly equipped with cutting-edge navigation, surveillance, and communication systems, tailored for both inland and coastal patrols. These technological enhancements are expected to improve the Force’s ability to respond rapidly to maritime incidents and conduct surveillance in high-risk zones.
This commissioning follows closely on the heels of the IGP’s meeting with the CEO of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council, during which he assured stakeholders of the Police Force’s commitment to maritime security.
Official Statement and Call to Duty
In a press statement released by Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the IGP was quoted as charging officers of the Force Marine Unit to utilize the boats effectively in combatting maritime crime, protecting economic assets, and facilitating smooth port operations.
“These boats are not just assets; they are instruments of national security. I urge our officers to deploy them judiciously in the fight against criminality on our waterways,” he said.
The commissioning of the 31 gunboats stands as a major milestone in Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to secure its maritime frontiers, ensuring that law enforcement agencies remain a step ahead of criminal elements threatening the country’s blue economy.
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