President Bola Tinubu has restated his administration’s unwavering commitment to enhancing the operational readiness and strategic capacity of the Nigerian Navy amid rising maritime security challenges.

Speaking through the Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Muhammad Matawalle, the President made this known at the Passing Out Parade and Commissioning Ceremony of 264 naval cadets from the Direct Short Service Course 29 (DSSC 29) and the Special Duty Pre-Commissioning Training Course 2024 (SDPCT 24) at the Nigerian Naval College in Ebubu, Rivers State.

In a statement signed by his personal assistant on media Ahmed Dan-Wudil, on Saturday, the Minister praised the Nigerian Navy for its sustained efforts in securing the nation’s maritime domain.

He highlighted the link between improved naval operations and rising economic indicators, citing the increase in daily crude oil production to over 1.7 million barrels.

Tinubu also lauded recent reforms within the Navy, including the creation of specialised units such as the Special Operations Command and the Nigerian Navy Marines.

He noted the operational launch of strategic naval bases like NNS MADUEKE and Naval Base Epe, alongside ongoing advancements in indigenous shipbuilding—testaments to the Navy’s growing self-reliance and innovation.

Addressing the cadets, Matawalle urged them to embody the core values of Professionalism, Teamwork, and Integrity.

“Let your service be guided by discipline, loyalty, and allegiance to the Constitution,” Matawalle told the newly commissioned officers.

He called on them to remain steadfast in loyalty and service to the nation.

The Minister further commended the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, for his strategic leadership, and praised the Commandant and staff of the Naval College for maintaining high training standards