Rear Admiral Idi Abbas has been appointed as the 25th Chief of Naval Staff of the Nigerian Navy, bringing over three decades of experience and a strong background in Above Water Warfare to the position. Born on September 20, 1969, in Nassarawa Local Government Area of Kano State, Abbas has demonstrated dedication to duty and a passion for maritime security throughout his career.
Abbas’ educational journey began at Gwagwarwa Primary School in Kano, followed by attendance at the Air Force Military School in Jos from 1981 to 1986. He then gained admission to the Nigerian Defence Academy in 1987 as a member of the 40 Regular Course and was commissioned as a Sub-Lieutenant in 1993 with a degree in Chemistry. The new naval chief has undergone various military training courses, including the Sub-Lieutenant Technical Course, Officers’ Long Course in Above Water Warfare, and the Junior and Senior Staff Courses at the Armed Forces Command and Staff College.
Throughout his career, Abbas has held several command and staff appointments, serving onboard various Nigerian Navy ships, including NNS ARADU, NNS DAMISA, and NNS AYAM. He has also served as Naval Assistant to the Deputy Commandant, Armed Forces Command and Staff College, and as Commanding Officer, Burma Battalion, NDA. Other notable appointments include Base Administrative Officer, NNS PATHFINDER, and Flag Officer Commanding, Central Naval Command.
Abbas has risen steadily through the ranks, from Midshipman in 1996 to Rear Admiral in 2020. His career has been recognized with several honors, including the Forces Service Star, Meritorious Service Star, and Distinguished Service Star. As a Fellow of the Defence College and a member of the Nigerian Institute of Management and the International Institute of Professional Security, Abbas is widely respected for his professionalism and strategic leadership.
As the new Chief of Naval Staff, Abbas is expected to bring renewed drive and operational focus to the Nigerian Navy, contributing to the safeguarding of Nigeria’s maritime domain and national security. With his wealth of experience and strong background in maritime security, Abbas is well-positioned to lead the Nigerian Navy in its mandate to protect the country’s interests at sea.