Nigerian Navy ( Foreign Navy).

• Establishment: The Nigerian Navy was officially established in 1956 as the Nigerian Naval Force, becoming the Nigerian Navy after Nigeria’s independence in 1960. • Colonial Roots: Its origins trace back to the Nigerian Marine, a colonial-era organization responsible for ports, harbours, and inland waterways, which was split to form the modern Navy. • First Ships: The first ships acquired were British-built patrol crafts named PATHFINDER and CHALLENGER, symbolizing the Navy’s British heritage. • Biafra Civil War: During the Nigerian Civil War (1967–1970), the Navy played a pivotal role in blockading Biafran ports, contributing to the outcome of the conflict. • Maritime Security: The Nigerian Navy is critical to combating piracy and oil theft in the Gulf of Guinea, one of the world’s most piracy-prone regions. • International Cooperation: Nigeria regularly participates in joint naval exercises such as Obangame Express, working with U.S., European, and African navies to improve maritime security. • Naval Aviation: The Nigerian Navy operates its own air arm, including helicopters and UAVs, for surveillance and anti-piracy missions. • Female Pioneers: In 2012, the Navy commissioned its first female Commodore, Jamila Malafa, breaking gender barriers in Nigeria’s armed forces. • Naval Dockyard: The Nigerian Naval Dockyard in Lagos is one of the largest in West Africa, capable of constructing and maintaining major naval vessels. • Peacekeeping Missions: Nigerian Navy personnel have participated in United Nations peacekeeping operations, showcasing Nigeria’s commitment to international security.