The Nigerian Navy has announced the establishment of a new Special Operations Command in Makurdi, Benue State, aimed at strengthening security in Nigeria’s Middle Belt region. This move is part of a broader strategy to enhance national and regional stability.
The announcement was made by Rear Admiral Ibrahim Dewu, representing the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, during a press briefing commemorating the Navy’s 69th anniversary in Abuja.
Enhancing Joint Security Efforts
The Special Operations Command will be located at the North Bank of River Benue and will collaborate with the Nigerian Army, Air Force, and other security agencies. The command will comprise Special Boat Service operatives, Deep Blue Sea operatives, and Nigerian Navy Marines. Dewu emphasized that this elite unit will be capable of operations across land, sea, and air, greatly expanding the military’s reach and effectiveness.
Boosting Regional Maritime Security
In addition to domestic security, the Navy is set to launch a Combined Maritime Task Force for the Gulf of Guinea. This multinational initiative will involve coordinated efforts among Gulf nations, aiming to improve maritime safety and reduce piracy. The project supports the Navy’s Total Spectrum Maritime Strategy, extending its operational capability from inland waters to the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).
Thanks to surveillance systems like the Falcon Eye and the Regional Maritime Awareness Capacity Systems, Nigeria has maintained a zero-piracy rating according to the International Maritime Bureau.
Fleet Modernization and Aerial Strength
As part of its fleet renewal efforts, the Nigerian Navy has acquired three new patrol vessels—NNS Shere, NNS Faro, and NNS Ikogosi—from Singapore and South Korea. Each 38-meter vessel has a five-day endurance and will serve as Seaward Defence Boats operating within Nigeria’s littoral waters and beyond.
The Navy has also added three Agusta Westland 109 Trekker helicopters to its aerial fleet, increasing its air strength to 14 aircraft. These helicopters are expected to improve maritime surveillance and rapid response operations.
Combating Oil Theft and Illegal Refineries
Under Operation Delta Sanity, the Navy has intensified its campaign against crude oil theft and illegal refining. In 2024 alone, the operation led to the arrest of 215 suspects, seizure of 26 vessels, and dismantling of 468 illegal refinery sites. In 2025 so far, the Navy has already deactivated 103 illegal sites, arrested 34 suspects, and seized 773,000 litres of crude oil and 150,000 litres of refined products.
These efforts align with the federal government’s mandate to eliminate oil theft and boost national oil production and export capacity.
Strengthening International Cooperation
The Navy has expanded its global partnerships, most notably through Exercise Oba Game Express 2025, which included participation from navies of Gulf of Guinea nations and countries like the United States, Brazil, Italy, and Spain.
In a significant diplomatic milestone, Nigeria signed an agreement with the African Union in February 2025 to provide sea lift support for peacekeeping, disaster relief, and humanitarian missions across the continent.
Conclusion
Rear Admiral Dewu affirmed the Nigerian Navy’s readiness to fulfill its growing responsibilities, both at home and abroad. With new commands, advanced equipment, and strengthened alliances, the Navy is positioning itself as a cornerstone of regional security and a model for maritime operations in Africa.