By Philip Nwosu
The Indian Navy Ship (INS) Tushil, a Krivak III-class stealth-guided missile frigate, has arrived in Lagos for a diplomatic visit to Nigeria. The ship, which is on its maiden voyage from Kaliningrad, Russia, to its home base in Karwar, India, is the first naval vessel to visit Lagos this year.
The reception ceremony, held at the ENL Terminal in Apapa Port, was attended by high-ranking officials from both the Nigerian Navy and the Indian diplomatic community.
Captain Peter Varghese, Commanding Officer of INS Tushil, was welcomed by Captain A.A. Raji, Commander of the Nigerian Navy Training Command (CINTO West), on behalf of the Nigerian Navy.
Representing the Indian government were Ms. Vartika Rawat, Acting High Commissioner of India to Nigeria, and Colonel Rowi Singh, Indian Defence Attaché to Nigeria. Also present were students from an Indian school in Lagos and members of the Indian expatriate community, who cheered the arrival of the ship as a symbol of India’s commitment to fostering bilateral relations.
The visit of INS Tushil highlights the longstanding and evolving partnership between India and Nigeria, particularly in the areas of maritime security and defense cooperation. Both nations have shared interests in combating piracy, ensuring the safety of sea lanes in the Gulf of Guinea, and promoting regional peace and stability.
While in Lagos, the crew of INS Tushil is expected to engage in a series of activities aimed at strengthening ties between the two navies. These include joint training exercises, professional exchanges, and cultural interactions with the Nigerian Navy and local community.
The ship’s advanced capabilities, including its stealth features and guided missile systems, also demonstrate India’s growing maritime prowess and technological advancement. The visit is seen as an opportunity for both nations to explore further collaborations in defense technology and maritime strategy.
This visit reaffirms India’s commitment to fostering partnerships in Africa, with Nigeria playing a key role as a strategic ally. The presence of INS Tushil in Lagos underscores the importance of maritime diplomacy in enhancing mutual understanding and cooperation between the two nations.