The newly appointed Commander of Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) SOROH, Commodore Chris Akokota, has issued a strong warning to oil thieves and other maritime criminals operating in the Niger Delta, declaring an end to “business as usual” in the fight against economic sabotage.
Speaking on Friday, 13 February 2026, during the official handover ceremony at the naval base, Commodore Akokota pledged to adopt an “iron fist” approach to curb crude oil theft, pipeline vandalism, illegal bunkering and other criminal activities threatening Nigeria’s maritime and economic security.
The new commander, who took over from Commodore Omobamidele Akinbami, announced the immediate integration of NNS SOROH into Operation DELTA SENTINEL, a strategic security initiative aimed at strengthening maritime surveillance and safeguarding critical national assets in the Niger Delta region.
Commodore Akokota emphasised that his command would prioritise professionalism, enhanced inter-agency collaboration, and community engagement in addressing security challenges. He stressed that synergy with other security agencies and host communities remains critical to achieving lasting peace and stability in the region.
He also charged officers and men under his command to maintain the highest standards of discipline, operational readiness and integrity while intensifying efforts to protect Nigeria’s maritime domain.
The commander reaffirmed that the renewed operational posture aligns with the vision of the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, to build a professional, responsive and people-focused Nigerian Navy capable of effectively countering maritime threats.
He assured stakeholders and residents of the Niger Delta of the Navy’s commitment to securing lives, property and economic infrastructure, while warning that perpetrators of oil theft and related crimes would face decisive consequences.
