Linus Aleke in Abuja
The Nigerian Navy has mentioned that between November 2025 and November 2026, it sustained Nigeria’s zero-piracy standing and secured 9 convictions for offences regarding crude oil theft and pipeline vandalism.
The Service additionally disclosed that, throughout the interval underneath assessment, it deactivated 168 unlawful refining websites, destroyed 363 dugout pits, arrested 259 suspects and seized 4 vessels suspected of involvement in crude oil theft.
The Director of Naval Information, Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, in an announcement marking Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Idi Abba’s first 12 months in workplace, additional revealed that the Service recovered over 7.48 million litres of stolen crude oil and illegally refined petroleum merchandise throughout the 12 months.
Folorunsho mentioned the Nigerian Navy recorded important operational, infrastructural and institutional achievements throughout Vice Admiral Idi Abba’s first 12 months as Chief of the Naval Staff, strengthening its contribution to maritime safety, the safety of nationwide belongings and nationwide growth.
He mentioned, “A significant operational initiative was the activation of Operation Delta Sentinel in January 2026 to strengthen efforts in opposition to crude oil theft, unlawful bunkering and different maritime crimes. The Navy additionally commissioned three high-speed patrol vessels, NNS Oloibiri, NNS Mambila and NNS Gurara, in June 2026 to boost maritime surveillance, operational attain and response capabilities.
“The Service also advanced infrastructure development and personnel welfare through the construction and commissioning of over 36 projects, including accommodation, medical, office and multipurpose facilities. In addition, it commenced the development of a 200-bed Reference Hospital at Navy Town, Asokoro, Abuja. Through the Chief of the Naval Staff Special Intervention Quick Impact Projects (CNS-SIQIP) and other community initiatives, the Navy completed over 93 community development projects.”
These tasks, he mentioned, included 18 solar-powered boreholes, the renovation of 11 faculty buildings, the development and equipping of 11 healthcare centres, and the supply of electrical energy infrastructure in three communities.
“On human capacity development, the Nigerian Navy graduated and inducted its inaugural batch of 328 Nigerian Navy Marines. The personnel were deployed to reinforce ongoing operations, particularly against asymmetric threats in northern Nigeria, while training for a second batch continued,” the Naval Spokesperson mentioned.
Furthermore, the Navy strengthened regional maritime cooperation by way of its participation in workout routines, together with Obangame Express 2026, Coastal Grip 2, Grand African Nemo 2026 and Crocodile Lift.
