The Nigerian Navy has set up a Marine Force consisting of 326 Marines dedicated to the protection of $16.6 billion in offshore oil and gas investments located in the Niger Delta.
These expertly trained marines, equipped with capabilities for air, land, and sea operations, are also intended to bolster internal security in the riverine areas and their hinterlands.
During the announcement of the special force, Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyede, characterized this development as a pivotal moment in the framework of Nigeria's maritime security.
He encouraged the marines to stay focused and dedicated, cautioning them about the unconventional and adaptive threats they might encounter.
"You have gone through intense physical training, mental resilience exercises, and advanced tactical drills to meet Special Forces Tier 2 standards.
“The challenges you will face will test your resolve and fortitude. Stay intellectually nimble, tactically innovative, and decisive. Your conduct must embody integrity, professionalism, and patriotism," he remarked.
General Oluyede emphasized Nigeria's strategic position within the Gulf of Guinea, a central hub for maritime commerce that is closely tied to significant oil and gas resources.
He highlighted that the new Marine Force would play a crucial role in maintaining stability across the maritime landscape and protecting the nation’s economic interests.
Additionally, he stressed the necessity of collaboration with other security forces, maritime stakeholders, and local coastal communities to enhance security and foster public trust.
Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, Chief of Naval Staff, noted that the Nigerian Navy Marines were established on June 1, 2025, with the initial phase of training for the first group commencing on August 14, 2025.
Following six months of Special Operations Tier 2 training, the force is now prepared for operational deployment.
Commodore Olayinka Aliyu, the Commandant of the Nigerian Navy Marines Training Centre, stated that this unit was created as a combat-ready force capable of functioning in diverse environments, including maritime, riverine, littoral, and inland terrains.
He indicated that the training incorporated various aspects such as endurance, amphibious maneuvers, marksmanship, close-quarters combat, survival skills, small-team tactics, and multi-domain operations, including land and jungle warfare exercises, conducted in Ogun State.
"To achieve this, the training programs structured under Command Oversight have been specifically designed to be rigorous, intensive, and all- encompassing, incorporating endurance drills, amphibious techniques, marksmanship, close-quarters combat, survival tactics, and multi-domain integration.
"The land and jungle warfare stages, executed in Ogun State, were aimed at developing marines who are physically robust, adaptable in tactics, and mentally strong," he explained.
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