The newly appointed Chief of Naval Staff, Rear Admiral Idi Abbas, on Thursday officially assumed duty with a pledge to intensify the fight against crude oil theft, illegal bunkering and other maritime crimes threatening Nigeria’s economy.
Naijaonpoint reports that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu last week announced a major shake-up in the Armed Forces, appointing new chiefs for the Army, Navy and Air Force as part of his efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s security architecture.
Speaking at the Nigerian Navy Headquarters in Abuja during the handing-over ceremony, Abbas, who becomes the 23rd Chief of Naval Staff, described his appointment as a privilege and promised to discharge his duties with dedication, integrity and loyalty to 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 the President and Commander-in-Chief, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for finding me worthy to lead the Nigerian Navy,” he said.
The naval chief admitted that despite notable achievements under his predecessor, Nigeria’s maritime environment remained under serious threat from organised criminal activities.
“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,” Abbas stated.
According to him, these crimes not only undermine Nigeria’s national economy and energy security but also jeopardise the livelihoods of coastal communities and the broader stability of the nation.
Abbas outlined his priorities for the Navy under his leadership. These include improving maritime security, enhancing the operational capability of the fleet through aggressive renewal and increased use of technology, and prioritising personnel training and welfare.
He also stressed the importance of collaboration, saying his tenure would focus on inter-agency synergy, regional cooperation and international partnerships to combat maritime criminality more effectively.
“To confront these challenges decisively, my tenure will be guided by a clear and actionable strategic approach,” he explained.
The naval chief praised his predecessor, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Nkechukwokala, describing him as a visionary leader who laid a solid foundation for continued progress.
“I salute the visionary leadership and service of my predecessor, which has provided us with the base to consolidate on past successes,” Abbas said.
Rear Admiral Abbas urged naval personnel to uphold the service’s core values of integrity, professionalism and teamwork, insisting that discipline and accountability would remain paramount under his watch.
He assured officers and ratings that their welfare would be given priority, while also pledging to lead by example.
“I promise to lead from the front and ensure that your welfare remains a top priority. The Navy will work tirelessly to safeguard our waters and support the growth of the blue economy,” he declared.
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