PHOTOS: IGP Commissions 31 New Gunboats To Strengthen Maritime Security

PHOTOS: IGP Commissions 31 New Gunboats To Strengthen Maritime Security
Published Thursday, June 5, 2025

The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, on Thursday commissioned 31 newly acquired operational gunboats for the Nigeria Police Force Marine Unit at a formal ceremony held in Lagos.

According to Naija News, the initiative marks a significant investment in maritime security, aiming to boost the Unit’s capacity to combat waterway crimes, protect vital infrastructure, and ensure the safety of citizens within Nigeria’s maritime domain.

Top Officials Present

The IGP was joined by several senior police officers including:

• DIG Yakubu Kwazi, mni – Deputy Inspector General of Operations

• AIG Adegoke Fayoade – Assistant Inspector General, Zone 2

• AIG Funsho Adegboye – AIG in charge of Police Mobile Force

• AIG Tunji Rilwan Disu – AIG in charge of Special Protection Unit

• ACP Chima Ogarashi – Force Marine Officer

Representatives from key maritime agencies, such as the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), and the CEO of Sensor and Safety Ltd, Chief Oguntade Majekodunmi (represented by Mr. Babalola Tunde), were also in attendance.

Strengthening Maritime Defense

In his remarks, the IGP described the acquisition as a strategic response to evolving maritime security threats. He emphasized the Police Force’s commitment to protecting Nigeria’s waters from criminal activity and economic sabotage.

“The deployment of these assets underscores our renewed dedication to maritime policing, rescue missions, and coordinated patrol operations,” the IGP said.

The gunboats, fitted with advanced navigation and communication systems, are intended to support smooth port operations and enhance inter-agency cooperation.

Collaboration and Call to Duty

Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, relayed the IGP’s call for collaboration among security agencies and charged officers in the Marine Unit to effectively utilize the equipment to protect national interests.

This development follows the IGP’s earlier commitment to maritime security during a meeting with the CEO of the Nigerian Shippers Council earlier this week.

See the pictures below: