Nigerian Navy 70th Anniversary and 6th Sea Power for Africa Symposium

Leveraging Technology for Enhanced Maritime Security in Africa

Hosted Alongside the
Nigerian Navy 70th Anniversary Celebration

WELCOME MESSAGE 

On behalf of the officers and ratings of the Nigerian Navy as well as the civilian staff, I am pleased to warmly welcome you to the Sixth Sea Power for Africa Symposium (SPAS). This highly important and high-level event will bring together Chiefs of the Naval Staff, senior naval officers, policymakers and defence industry leaders from across Africa and the world.

The SPAS will be held in Nigeria from 2 – 3 June 2026, coinciding with the 70th Anniversary celebrations of the Nigerian Navy from 31 May to 4 June 2026.

We are deeply honoured and delighted to host all our esteemed guests. The theme, “Leveraging Technology for Enhanced Maritime Security in Africa” was carefully selected to provide a platform for naval leaders to engage in strategic discussions on how to leverage technology to solve regional maritime challenges. Additionally, the event provides an avenue to share operational insights and strengthen cooperation for the security and governance of Africa’s seas.

The Sixth SPAS will feature conference sessions, networking events and an international exhibition showcasing the latest naval equipment, technologies and solutions that will help our navies effectively protect Africa’s maritime interests. We sincerely look forward to welcoming you to this landmark symposium and working together to shape a safer, more cooperative maritime future for the continent.

SEA POWER FOR AFRICA SYMPOSIUM 2026

EVENT OVERVIEW

The 6th Sea Power for Africa Symposium (SPAS 2026) builds on the success of the 2024 edition in South Africa, bringing together naval leaders, coast guards, defence ministries, policymakers, industry experts and international allies to enhance collaboration, intelligence-sharing and coordinated responses to maritime security challenges and opportunities in Africa.

Hosted in Lagos, Nigeria, the symposium provides a platform to strengthen regional security cooperation, promote governance and enhance interoperability across African navies.

The 2026 edition coincides with the 70th Anniversary of the Nigerian Navy, offering a unique opportunity to celebrate its enduring legacy while exploring innovative strategies, technological advancements and collaborative frameworks that will shape Africa’s maritime future.

SPAS 2026 will focus on actionable outcomes, shared intelligence and sustainable partnerships, reinforcing the importance of collective efforts to secure Africa’s seas and unlock the full potential of the continent’s oceanic resources.

PARTICIPATING COUNTRIES

SPAS will hosts senior navy leadership and defence delegations from across Africa and globally, providing a trusted platform for strategic engagement, collaboration, and long-term cooperation among continental naval forces. The following countries will be represented by their naval forces at the 6th SPAS:

What to Expect? 

Chiefs of Navy & Coast Guards 

1 +

Attendees  

1 +

Chiefs and Senior Officers

1 +

Sponsors and Exhibitors 

1 +

Countries Represented 

1 +

High-Level Speakers 

1 +

Media Partners 

1 +

KEY FORUM ELEMENTS

SPAS 2026 Key Themes:

DISCUSSANTS

Dr Paul Adalikwu
Secretary General
Maritime Organisation of West and Central Africa
COTE D'IVOIRE
Vice Admiral Monde Lobese
Chief of the South African Navy
South Africa
Rear Admiral Said ZEBAKHE
Deputy Inspector of the
Royal Moroccan Navy
Vice Admiral Vinay Badhwar (Rtd)
INDIA
Rear Admiral Patrick Hayden (Rtd)
USA
AVM OC Ubadike
Deputy Commandant
Air Force Institute of Technology
Kaduna
NIGERIA
Dr. Ian Ralby
President
Auxilium Worldwide
USA
Prof. Aykut Ibrahim Olcer
Director of Research, Head
Maritime Energy Management
World Maritime University
SWEDEN
Dr Bolarinwa Balogun
Director AIR Centre
NASDRA

MODERATORS

Vice Admiral EI Ogalla (Rtd)
Former Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS)
NIGERIA
Vice Admiral DJ Ezeoba (Rtd)
Former Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS)
NIGERIA
Vice Admiral AZ Gambo (Rtd)
Former Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS)
NIGERIA

Summary of Events at the 6th SPAS 2026

31 May 2026
Cocktail Reception
International Fleet Review (IFR)
1 June 2026
IFR International Exhibition
1 June 2026
Exclusive Gala Dinner for Chiefs of Navies and VVIPs
1 June 2026
6th SPAS 2026 Opening Ceremony
2 -3 June 2026
6th SPAS International
Exhibition
2-3 June 2026
Ceremonial Sunset/Dinner & Award Night
4 June 2026

SPONSORS AND PARTNERS

Register Now

Delegate Pass - Complimentary Pass
Vendor Pass - $2799 + 5% VAT

Floorplan

Venue

Eko Convention Center, Victoria Island, Lagos, Nigeria