Newly appointed Chief of Naval Staff Rear Admiral Idi Abbas pledged to lead a decisive, technology‑driven Nigerian Navy that secures the nation’s maritime domain and boosts the blue economy. He made this commitment during his assumption of command as the 23rd Chief of Naval Staff in Abuja, identifying crude‑oil theft, sea robbery, illegal bunkering and other maritime crimes as major threats to national security and economic stability. Abbas vowed to confront these crimes decisively, emphasizing the need to strengthen maritime security, enhance operational capability and improve personnel welfare.
Abbas praised his predecessor, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, for laying a solid foundation for the Navy’s progress, describing his leadership as visionary and exemplary. He urged officers, ratings and civilian staff to rededicate themselves to the Navy’s core values of integrity, professionalism and teamwork. Ogalla, the outgoing chief, highlighted significant strides made during his tenure, including the launch of Operation Delta Sanity, which deactivated more than 800 illegal refining sites and led to the arrest of 240 suspects. He also noted the Navy’s success in preventing piracy incidents, resulting in Nigeria’s removal from the International Maritime Bureau’s piracy report in 2022.
The Nigerian Navy has made notable progress in fleet recapitalisation, acquiring new vessels, helicopters and unmanned aerial vehicles. It has established new bases and facilities in several states, upgraded existing commands and introduced key policy reforms, such as the creation of the Nigerian Navy Marines and a Special Operations Command.
As Abbas takes the helm, he promises to lead from the front, prioritise personnel welfare and ensure the Navy remains professional, accountable and welfare‑driven. With the support of the Commander‑in‑Chief and the solidarity of all Nigerians, he aims to steer the Navy toward a more glorious future, tackling maritime crimes and boosting the nation’s economic growth.
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