In November 2009 the Nigerian Tribune published a report titled "Navy uncovers plot to destabilise Nigeria" that said the Nigerian Naval Command had reported discovery of plans by a group headed by Commodore Benson Edema to destabilise the country.
In August 2010 "Commodore" Aderemi Olatinwo, Director-General of the Nigerian Merchant Navy, called for formal recognition of an autonomous Merchant Navy to undertake coast guard duties.