…Pledges to intensify operations against maritime crimes
The new Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Ibrahim Abbas, on Wednesday, assumed command of the Nigerian Navy and pledged to strengthen maritime security and to lead the service with integrity, professionalism, and accountability.
Addressing senior officers at the Naval Headquarters in Abuja, Rear Admiral Abbas expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for entrusting him with the leadership of the Navy,.
He described the appointment as “a profound honour and a call to higher service.”
“It is with a profound sense of honour, humility, and gratitude to God Almighty that I stand before you today as the 23rd Chief of the Naval Staff,” he said. “I am humbled by the trust bestowed upon me and fully recognise the responsibilities this esteemed office carries.”
Rear Admiral Abbas paid glowing tribute to his predecessor, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, acknowledging his visionary leadership and the foundation he laid for the continued growth of the service. “Vice Admiral Ogalla’s legacy embodies humility and dedication to the ideals of the Nigerian Navy. We value and honour your service to our dear nation,” he noted.
Rear Admiral Abbas also reaffirmed the Navy’s resolve to protect Nigeria’s maritime domain, from its coastal waters to the Gulf of Guinea, adding that the Navy would intensify operations against crude oil theft, sea robbery, illegal bunkering, unregulated fishing, and drug trafficking.
“These crimes not only undermine our national economy and energy security but also threaten the livelihoods of our coastal communities,” he warned. “To confront these challenges decisively, my tenure will be guided by a clear and actionable strategy focused on strengthening maritime security, enhancing fleet capability through renewal and technology, prioritising personnel welfare and training, and deepening inter-agency and international collaboration.”
He emphasised the importance of synergy among security agencies, promising that the Nigerian Navy under his command would work closely with sister services and regional partners to address pervasive threats in the maritime sector.
The new CNS urged officers, ratings, and civilian staff to rededicate themselves to the Navy’s core values of integrity, professionalism, and teamwork. “The task ahead is demanding, but it is not insurmountable,” he told them . “The Nigerian Navy under my watch will be a professional and accountable institution. Our maritime domain is the lifeline of our economy, and we are fully committed to safeguarding it for national prosperity.”
He assured personnel that their welfare would remain a top priority, vowing to lead by example and maintain open communication. “I promise to lead from the front, to listen, and to ensure that your welfare remains a top priority,” he stated.
The CNS is sure about Nigerian Navy’s good future, saying, “With the support of the Commander-in-Chief and the solidarity of all Nigerians, we shall steer the Nigerian Navy toward a more glorious future. Onward together!”