The newly appointed Chief of Naval Staff, Rear Admiral Idi Abbas, on Thursday officially assumed office, vowing to step up the fight against crude oil theft, illegal bunkering, sea robbery, and other maritime crimes that continue to threaten Nigeria’s economic stability.
Speaking during the handover ceremony at the Naval Headquarters in Abuja, Rear Admiral Abbas acknowledged that while the Nigerian Navy had made notable progress under previous leadership, the nation’s maritime domain remains under persistent threat from criminal activities that undermine national security and economic prosperity.
“Our maritime environment is still plagued by crude oil theft, sea robbery, illegal bunkering, unreported and unregulated fishing, and drug trafficking,” he said. “These crimes not only weaken our economy and energy security but also threaten the livelihoods of coastal communities.”
Outlining his vision for the Navy, Abbas pledged to focus on strengthening maritime security, enhancing operational capacity through aggressive fleet renewal and advanced technology, prioritising personnel training and welfare, and fostering greater collaboration with other security agencies and international partners.
He said his leadership would adopt a strategic, results-driven approach to ensure that the Navy becomes more efficient and better equipped to protect Nigeria’s maritime assets and support the nation’s blue economy agenda.
“It is with humility and gratitude to God that I stand before you today as the 23rd Chief of the Naval Staff. I am deeply grateful to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the trust reposed in me to lead this great institution,” he added.
Rear Admiral Abbas also commended his predecessor, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Nkechukwokala, for his “visionary leadership and service,” which he said had strengthened the Navy and provided a solid foundation for further progress.
He urged officers and ratings to remain committed to the Navy’s core values of integrity, professionalism, and teamwork, emphasizing that discipline, accountability, and welfare would remain top priorities during his tenure.
“I promise to lead from the front and ensure that your welfare remains a top priority,” he said. “The Nigerian Navy under my command will work tirelessly to safeguard our waters and contribute significantly to the growth of our blue economy.”
Rear Admiral Abbas’s appointment was part of a major shake-up in the Armed Forces last week by President Tinubu, which saw new service chiefs named for the Army, Navy, and Air Force.
