Lagos, Nigeria – The Nigerian police force has significantly expanded its maritime security capabilities with the commissioning of 31 new operational gunboats. The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, officially launched the vessels for the Force Marine Unit at a ceremony in Lagos today, June 5th, 2025.
This investment is aimed at bolstering the unit’s ability to combat crime, protect waterways, and ensure the safety of citizens and critical infrastructure within Nigeria’s vast maritime domain.
In his remarks, IGP Egbetokun described the acquisition as a “strategic response to the evolving security dynamics” in Nigeria’s waters. He emphasised that the deployment of these assets symbolises a renewed effort to strengthen maritime policing, counter emerging threats, and enhance rescue and patrol operations. The new gunboats are reportedly equipped with advanced navigation and communication technologies.
The IGP reiterated the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to collaborating with other security agencies and stakeholders to secure the maritime environment. He charged officers of the Force Marine Unit to utilise the gunboats effectively to combat economic sabotage and ensure safe waterways for port operations.
The commissioning ceremony was attended by senior police officers, including the Deputy Inspector General in charge of Operations, DIG Yakubu Kwazi; the Assistant Inspector General of Zone 2, AIG Adegoke Fayoade; and representatives from various maritime agencies, such as the Nigeria Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA).
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