Nigerian Navy Completes Five Vessels, Expands Shipbuilding

The Nigerian Navy has ramped up its local shipbuilding efforts, completing five vessels since 2010, including ferries and three seaward defense boats, with three more vessels currently under construction. Rear Admiral Akinola Olatund disclosed these developments during a press briefing in Abuja, marking the Navy's 70th anniversary.

The Navy aims to strengthen its fleet, which has evolved from inheriting 11 crafts from the Royal Navy to becoming Africa's strongest naval fleet with 34,000 personnel. The ongoing shipbuilding projects are being handled by indigenous shipyards in Lagos and Port Harcourt, with the Navy also expanding its technical capabilities to refit warships for neighboring countries, including Benin Republic, by 2024-2025.

The anniversary celebrations will culminate in the inauguration of three vessels by President Bola Tinubu, with various activities planned, including a nationwide prayer and community outreach programs.