INS Tushil, the Indian Navy’s latest guided missile stealth frigate, arrived in Lagos, Nigeria, on January 12, 2025, for an operational turnaround as part of its ongoing deployment to the Gulf of Guinea.
The ship was escorted into Lagos harbor by a Nigerian naval vessel and received a warm welcome from Nigerian Navy officers, officials from the Indian High Commission, and members of the Indian diaspora in Lagos.
Captain Peter Varghese, Commanding Officer of INS Tushil, is scheduled to meet senior leaders of the Nigerian Navy, including Rear Admiral MG Oamen, Flag Officer Commanding the Western Naval Command, and the Admiral Superintendent of the Naval Dockyard. Discussions will focus on enhancing bilateral naval cooperation.
During its stay, INS Tushil will engage in various professional activities such as a tabletop exercise, collaborative training sessions, cross-visits, and discussions to exchange best practices. Additionally, in collaboration with the High Commission of India and the Indian Pharmaceutical Manufacturers and Importers of Nigeria (IPMIN), the ship’s crew will organize a medical camp for locals, fostering stronger people-to-people ties between India and Nigeria.
Planned social and cultural events include a deck reception for Nigerian Navy officials, diplomats, and the Indian diaspora, as well as an open-ship event to showcase the vessel’s advanced capabilities and indigenous innovations. A yoga session and sports fixtures are also part of the program.
This visit highlights the Indian Navy’s commitment to regional maritime security and stability through collaborative efforts. It also underscores the strong and friendly relations between India and Nigeria, built on shared values of democracy and development, as well as the enduring partnership between their navies.
