Nigeria’s efforts to enhance maritime security and tackle emerging asymmetric threats received a significant boost with the formal inauguration of the Nigerian Navy Marines, an elite force designed to integrate land and maritime operations. The ceremony, held at the Nigerian Navy Ultra Modern Sports Complex in Navy Town, Ojo, Lagos, drew senior military commanders, international defence partners, and security stakeholders.
Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, described the establishment of the Marines as a major milestone in Nigeria’s security architecture, particularly across the strategically vital Gulf of Guinea. He emphasised that the new force is intended to bridge operational gaps between land and sea, ensuring protection of maritime resources, coastal communities, and critical oil and gas assets.
“The Nigerian Navy Marines represent a timely evolution, adapting our capabilities to contemporary security challenges,” General Oluyede said. “The Armed Forces remain committed to ensuring stability within the maritime domain and safeguarding our national interests.” He urged the graduates to remain disciplined, tactically innovative, and ready to operate in challenging and unconventional environments.
Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, Chief of the Naval Staff, highlighted that the Marines were created under the Special Operations Command to enhance precision operations and counter-terrorism effectiveness. “The Nigerian Navy Marines are a highly trained, mobile, and versatile force, capable of securing riverine corridors, supporting inland operations linked to maritime theatres, and operating across the full spectrum of naval missions,” he said.
Commandant of the Nigerian Navy Marines Training Centre, Commodore Olayinka Aliu, provided details of the unit’s formation and training. Established on June 1, 2025, the Marines began six months of intensive Special Operations Tier Two training on August 14, 2025, under guidance from the US Africa Special Forces. The training produced 326 personnel capable of operating in maritime, riverine, littoral, and inland environments.
“The training integrated physical conditioning, land and jungle warfare, and amphibious operations, culminating in scenario-based exercises to test critical thinking and operational readiness,” Commodore Aliu said. He described the three major training camps—Camp Ibere, Camp Yaki, and Camp Anyiemechaala—which guided the Marines from basic skills to complex operational capabilities.
The Nigerian Navy Marines, code-named ‘Bushmen,’ now join the Special Boat Service in providing amphibious depth, rapid response, and special operations capability. Commodore Aliu reaffirmed that the force is fully mission-capable, dependable, and aligned with Nigeria’s broader security needs, highlighting the Navy’s commitment to strengthening both maritime and national security through advanced training, modern equipment, and operational readiness.
