Nigerian Navy Marines
| Nigerian Navy Marines | |
|---|---|
| Founded | 2 June 2025 |
| Country |  Nigeria |
| Allegiance |  Nigerian Armed Forces |
| Branch |  Nigerian Navy |
| Type | Marine |
| Role | Amphibious, Costal Defence and Special Operations |
| Size | uknown |
| Part of | Navy Command (administrative sector), Naval Operations Command (operational sector) |
| Garrison/HQ | Abuja, Nigeria |
| Nickname(s) | NNM |
| Motto(s) | Courage and resilience |
| Commanders | |
| Commander-in-Chief |  President Bola Ahmed Tinubu |
| Chief of Defence Staff | General Christopher Gwabin Musa |
| Chief of the Naval Staff | Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla |
The Nigerian Navy Marines[1] is the Nigerian Navy's Naval infantry component. They are trained to operate in littoral combat theatres, as naval infantry and coastal artillery. There is also an SBS type naval commando unit. Formed on June 2, 2025, the Nigerian Navy Marines is considered the first and foremost unit to be involved in any amphibious or seaborne clashes.
History
[edit]The Nigerian Navy Marines were established to enhance the Nigerian Navy's capability to conduct amphibious and expeditionary warfare, particularly in response to evolving security challenges in Nigeria's coastal and riverine regions. The unit was formalized as part of the Nigerian Navy's modernization efforts to address threats such as piracy, illegal oil bunkering, militancy in the Niger Delta, and other maritime crimes. While the exact date of establishment is not widely documented, the Marines have been referenced in connection with Nigerian Navy operations since the early 2000s, particularly during intensified counter-insurgency efforts in the Niger Delta. The development of the Nigerian Navy Marines reflects Nigeria's strategic focus on securing its maritime domain, which includes over 853 kilometers of coastline and an Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) of approximately 200 nautical miles.
Organisation
[edit]Roles and Responsibilities
[edit]The Nigerian Navy Marines are primarily responsible for:
- Amphibious Operations: Conducting landings and operations in coastal and riverine environments to secure strategic locations or neutralize threats.
- Counter-Insurgency: Supporting operations against militant groups, particularly in the Niger Delta, where groups have engaged in attacks on oil infrastructure and maritime assets.
- Special Operations: Undertaking high-risk missions, including reconnaissance, direct action, and counter-terrorism in maritime environments.
The Marines operate in coordination with other Nigerian Navy units, such as the Special Boat Service (SBS), a specialized naval commando unit, and collaborate with other branches of the Nigerian Armed Forces, including the Nigerian Army and Air Force, during joint operations.
References
[edit]- ^ Jakepor21 (2 June 2025). "The logo of the newly established Nigerian Navy Marines". X. Retrieved 18 June 2025.
The logo of the newly established Nigerian Navy Marines. According to a statement issued by NN, "the Marines were established to increase NN contribution to land combat in support of sister services and fulfilment of National Interest."
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