The newly appointed Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), Rear Admiral Idi Abbas, on Thursday officially assumed office, pledging to intensify the Nigerian Navy’s fight against crude oil theft, illegal bunkering, and other maritime crimes threatening the nation’s economy.
Speaking at the Navy Headquarters in Abuja during the handing-over ceremony, Rear Admiral Abbas acknowledged that while the Navy has made notable progress, Nigeria’s maritime domain remains plagued by criminal activities such as sea robbery, illegal fishing, drug trafficking, and unregulated bunkering — all of which endanger national security and economic stability.
“I am not unaware that our maritime environment remains threatened by a scourge of crude oil theft, sea robbery, illegal bunkering, illegal unreported and unregulated fishing, and drug trafficking,” he said.
“These crimes not only undermine our national economy and energy security, but also threaten the livelihoods of our coastal communities and the economic stability and prosperity of our dear nation.”
Unveiling his strategic priorities, the 23rd Chief of Naval Staff outlined plans to:
- Strengthen maritime security and combat illegalities;
- Enhance fleet capability through aggressive renewal and deployment of advanced technology;
- Prioritise personnel training, discipline, and welfare; and
- Deepen collaboration with other security agencies and international partners.
Rear Admiral Abbas described his appointment as a privilege and pledged to lead with integrity, loyalty, and dedication to the service of the nation.
“It is with humility and gratitude to God that I stand before you today as the 23rd Chief of the Naval Staff. I am eternally grateful to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for finding me worthy to lead the Nigerian Navy,” he said.
He also paid tribute to his predecessor, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Nkechukwokala, whom he commended for his visionary leadership and the solid foundation he laid for continued progress.
The naval chief urged officers to uphold the Navy’s core values of integrity, professionalism, and teamwork, assuring them that their welfare will remain a top priority.
“I promise to lead from the front and ensure that your welfare remains a top priority,” he added, pledging that the Navy will work tirelessly to safeguard the nation’s waters and advance the growth of Nigeria’s blue economy.
President Bola Tinubu had last week appointed new service chiefs for the Army, Navy, and Air Force as part of a major shake-up in the Armed Forces.