Idi Abbas, a vice admiral, has formally assumed office as the 23rd Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS), succeeding Emmanuel Ogalla, who retired after 34 years of service to the nation.
PREMIUM TIMES reported that Mr Abbas was appointed by President Bola Tinubu on 24 October as part of a sudden reshuffling of military hierarchy weeks after an alleged attempted coup plot was uncovered.
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The brief handover ceremony held at the Naval Headquarters, Abuja, marked a significant transition in the leadership of the Nigerian Navy, with both officers pledging continued commitment to safeguarding the nation’s maritime domain and advancing the Navy’s operational capacity.
In his inaugural address, Mr Abbas, who was earlier decorated with his new rank alongside other newly-appointed service chiefs by President Tinubu, expressed gratitude to the president for the confidence reposed in him, promising to uphold the traditions of excellence and service for which the navy is known.
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He also paid tribute to Mr Ogalla, a vice admiral, for what he described as “visionary leadership and commendable service,” noting that his achievements had provided a solid foundation for the navy’s continued progress.
The new naval chief acknowledged the prevailing threats to Nigeria’s maritime environment, including crude oil theft, sea robbery, illegal bunkering, and drug trafficking; pledging to confront them decisively.
Outlining his priorities, Mr Abbas said his tenure would focus on strengthening maritime security, enhancing fleet capability through renewal and technology, prioritising personnel training and welfare, and fostering greater synergy with other security agencies and regional partners.
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“The Nigerian Navy under my watch will be a professional and accountable institution,” he declared, urging officers and ratings to rededicate themselves to the service’s core values of integrity, professionalism, and teamwork.
He emphasised that he would lead by example while ensuring that personnel welfare remained a top priority.
In his valedictory remarks, Mr Ogalla reflected on his stewardship, describing his tenure as fulfilling and marked by measurable achievements in maritime security, fleet expansion, and personnel welfare.
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He highlighted key accomplishments, including the absence of piracy incidents under his watch, the success of Operations Delta Sanity I and II against crude oil theft, and the fiscalisation of oil and gas export terminals, which boosted transparency and national revenue.
Mr Ogalla also noted progress in indigenous shipbuilding, the establishment of new naval bases and training facilities, and strengthened regional cooperation in the Gulf of Guinea.
He urged officers to extend full support to his successor and remain loyal to the Constitution and the Commander-in-Chief, Mr Tinubu.
Both officers concluded their remarks with a shared call for unity, professionalism, and dedication within the Navy ranks.
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