Police commissions gunboats to strengthen security on Nigeria’s waterways
LAGOS — On Friday, November 13, 2026, a formal handover ceremony for new gunboats took place in Lagos, marking a collaborative effort between the Nigeria Police Trust Fund (NPTF) and the Nigerian police. The boats are set to enhance the capabilities of the Force Marine Police.
The ceremony was attended by Assistant Inspector-General of Police Jimoh Moshood, who represented Inspector-General of Police Olatunji Rilwan Disu. Moshood expressed gratitude to the NPTF and its Executive Secretary, Mohammed Sheidu, for supplying the equipment aimed at strengthening police operations.
According to Moshood, the new vessels will bolster the Marine Police’s efforts in combating piracy, sea robbery, kidnapping, and smuggling, particularly in anticipation of the upcoming 2027 general elections.
Sheidu, in his address, assured the public that the Trust Fund remains committed to equipping law enforcement agencies across the country to enhance overall security. He also recognized the contributions of President Bola Tinubu and the Minister of Police Affairs in the ongoing initiatives to improve policing in Nigeria.
Among the dignitaries present were former Assistant Inspector-General of Police Okunade Ronke Nurat (retd.), Force Marine Officer CP Adepegba Adetoye, NPTF Director of Training CP Tony Osifo, and CSP H.A. Oduntan (retd.). Representatives from the Lagos State Security Trust Fund, the National Inland Waterways Authority, and various maritime stakeholders were also in attendance.
During the ceremony, Marine Police officers were urged to manage the new gunboats responsibly and effectively carry out their duties. Moshood emphasized the police’s commitment to securing the nation’s waterways and fostering a safer environment for legitimate maritime activities and businesses.
In a subsequent statement, Force Public Relations Officer CSP Aniete Iniedu reiterated the police’s dedication to safeguarding the country’s waterways through effective operations and cooperation with relevant stakeholders.
