Nigeria’s naval fleet has been ranked the strongest in Africa, according to the 2026 Global Firepower (GFP) report. The ranking evaluates countries based on conventional war-fighting capability across land, sea, and air.
The West African nation was credited with a fleet of 152 vessels, including 132 patrol boats, two mine warfare ships, and one frigate. The patrol boats include offshore patrol vessels, gunboats, missile boats, and fast-attack craft, which are primarily designed for shallow-water operations.
However, the report notes that Nigeria lacks aircraft carriers, submarines, corvettes, and destroyers, limiting its deep-sea projection compared with global naval powers. Despite this, the fleet’s strength places Nigeria ahead of Egypt and Algeria in Africa, and 22nd globally.
The country shares maritime borders with Benin, Cameroon, Equatorial Guinea, Ghana, and Sao Tome and Principe along an estimated 853 km coastline.
Its exclusive economic zone (EEZ) extends 220 nautical miles offshore, providing access to oil and aquatic resources. Meanwhile, piracy and territorial disputes remain persistent challenges in these waters.
Globally, Nigeria was ranked 33rd among 145 countries in overall military strength, while on the African continent, it was third behind Egypt and Algeria. Egypt, with 149 vessels, ranked second in naval strength and 23rd globally. Algeria, operating 111 vessels, came third in Africa and 34th in the world.
Morocco and South Africa followed with 100 and 63 vessels, respectively, while Tunisia, Mozambique, and Angola ranked sixth to eighth. Kenya and Eritrea completed the top ten in Africa with 27 and 23 ships.
The GFP report highlights that Nigeria’s naval fleet has a strong focus on patrol and mine warfare, which can be deployed to protect strategic waterways or support operations near harbors and ports. Meanwhile, the frigate allows the fleet to operate in deeper waters and support rotorcraft missions.
