Navy Seeks Royal Support Ahead Of 70th Anniversary In Lagos

As part of preparations for the Nigerian Navy’s 70th anniversary celebrations, the Commander of Nigerian Navy Ship BEECROFT, Commodore A. Adams-Aliu, on Wednesday sought the support of the Oba of Lagos, Oba Rilwanu Babatunde Aremu Akiolu.

The Navy boss sought this supoort when he paid a courtesy visit to his palace in Isale Eko, as part of preparations for the Nigerian Navy’s 70th anniversary celebrations.

The visit, which formed part of the Navy’s engagement ahead of the week-long commemoration, was also used to formally invite the Lagos monarch to participate in the anniversary activities.

The celebrations are expected to attract senior military officers, foreign naval delegations, government officials, and maritime stakeholders from across Nigeria and beyond.

Commodore Adams-Aliu said the anniversary marks a significant milestone for the Nigerian Navy, highlighting 70 years of maritime operations, national defence duties, and regional security engagements.

He stressed the importance of continued collaboration with traditional institutions, particularly in coastal communities where maritime security and economic activities intersect.

He noted that partnerships with community and traditional leaders remain vital in addressing security challenges within the maritime domain and in strengthening public confidence in naval operations.

In his response, the Oba of Lagos, Oba Rilwan Akiolu, commended the Navy for its role in safeguarding Nigeria’s territorial waters and ensuring safety along the nation’s coastline.

He expressed appreciation for the visit and pledged continued support for initiatives aimed at promoting peace, security, and unity within the maritime sector.

The Navy’s 70th anniversary celebration is scheduled to hold from May 29 to June 4 and will feature ceremonial parades, community outreach programmes, and an International Fleet Review at the Eko Atlantic waterfront. The event will also showcase the operational capabilities and historical contributions of the service to Nigeria’s security architecture.

The visit underscores ongoing efforts by the Navy to deepen civil-military relations ahead of the landmark celebration.