The director of Navy Affairs, Ministry of Defence, Mr. Joel Adeoye, Monday, hinted at the possible decommissioning of the Nigerian Navy’s flagship, NNS Aradu, citing the high cost of repairs.
The statement came during a familiarisation tour of Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Beecroft in Lagos.
Mr. Adeoye, who was on his first tour of naval establishments since his appointment six months ago, said the visit was to get a firsthand understanding of the challenges faced by the Navy to enable him factor them into the 2026 budget.
“My observation with the Nigerian Navy is that, in the face of the paucity of funds, they have been able to achieve a lot,” Adeoye stated.
He noted that he is now better informed about the Navy’s activities and that, going forward, they must find a way to provide more funding, particularly for logistics and troop welfare.
When asked about the future of the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Aradu, which has not been operating for a long time, Mr. Adeoye suggested that if the cost of repairs is too expensive, it may be better to “declare it as beyond economic repair and go for a better option.”
He clarified that the frigate could “possibly” be decommissioned after a thorough review of the repair costs.
Rear Admiral Mike Oamen, the Flag Officer Commanding (FOC) Western Naval Command, welcomed the director, highlighting the command’s critical role in naval operations and its contribution to national survival through military, policing, and diplomatic roles.
He expressed hope that the visit would help attract more resources to the Navy to better protect Nigeria’s maritime environment.
The FOC also gave a brief on the command’s achievements and challenges, stating that the Nigerian Navy is in need of more resources to ensure its ships are operational.