Nigerian Navy Launches Marine Force for Offshore Security

The Nigerian Navy announced the establishment of a Marine Force dedicated to protecting $16.6 billion worth of offshore assets. Chief of Defence Staff General Olufemi Oluyede emphasized the importance of adapting to unconventional threats and maintaining focus on maritime security.

The Marine Force is set to commence training on August 14, 2025, with the first batch undergoing six months of special operations Tier 2 training. This initiative aims to produce a combat-ready force capable of operating across maritime, riverine, and inland environments.

The training will include endurance, amphibious maneuvers, marksmanship, close-quarter battle, survival skills, and small team tactics. The training regimen will take place in Ogun State, with oversight from Commodore Olayinka Aliyu.

The establishment of this force is crucial for enhancing stability in the maritime domain and safeguarding Nigeria's economic interests, particularly in the Gulf of Guinea, a vital hub for maritime commerce.