The Inspector-General of Police, Mr. Kayode Egbetokun, has inaugurated 31 state-of-the-art combat gunboats in a bold move to enhance security across Nigeria’s waterways.
The gunboats were unveiled on Thursday at the Maritime Police Command in Lagos, marking a significant stride in the Nigeria Police Force’s ongoing efforts to strengthen maritime safety and tackle criminal activity on the nation’s aquatic frontiers.
Describing the initiative as a renewed commitment to maritime safety, anti-crime patrols, and rescue operations, the police chief said: “The addition of these purpose-built gunboats to the operational logistics of the Marine Police demonstrates our commitment to maritime security and our determination to stay ahead of emerging threats.”
Egbetokun highlighted the strategic importance of the new assets, which he said reflect the Force’s dedication to modern policing and sustainable law enforcement.
“These gunboats are not just vessels, they represent our unwavering resolve to protect Nigeria’s waterways, safeguard lives and property, and dismantle criminal networks,” he stated.
He further revealed that the boats are equipped with solar-powered systems, aligning the Force’s operations with global environmental standards.
“The integration of solar-powered systems aligns with global best practices in green policing and highlights our leadership in environmentally responsible law enforcement,” Egbetokun added.
The police boss emphasized the importance of inter-agency cooperation in achieving maritime security, noting the roles of key partners such as the Armed Forces, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), and the Nigeria Ports Authority (NPA).
“Securing Nigeria is a collaborative effort. The Police will continue to deepen our collaboration with our sister security agencies, particularly the armed forces, the maritime administration and safety agency, and the Nigeria Ports Authority, among others.”
He also reaffirmed the importance of intelligence-driven policing and community engagement.
“We recognise that intelligence-led policing and community engagement remain cornerstones of effective crime prevention. We shall continue to partner closely with coastal communities, leverage local intelligence, and build mutual trust in order to deny criminals the operating space,” he said.
Egbetokun commended President Bola Tinubu for his support and commitment to transforming the police force.
“Under President Tinubu’s visionary leadership, the Nigeria Police is undergoing a transformation marked by reform, modernisation, and professional excellence. The inauguration of the boats is a testament to the administration’s commitment to strengthening the capacity of the force to fulfill its constitutional mandate,” he noted.
Reaffirming the Force’s resolve, the IGP pledged to maintain law and order with integrity and courage.
“We will continue to strive with courage and integrity to protect you, to defend the territorial integrity of our nation and to ensure that Nigeria remains safe for all,” he assured.
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