The Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, has directed commanders across the Nigerian Navy to intensify intelligence-driven and technology-enabled operations to strengthen maritime security and defend Nigeria’s territorial integrity.
Abbas gave the directive during a strategic meeting with Flag Officers Commanding, commanders of tri-service operations, operations bases and logistics groups at Naval Headquarters on March 10, 2026.
In a press statement signed by Acting Director Naval Information, Captain (Nigerian Navy) AA FOLORUNSHO, thrThe naval chief urged commanders of Nigerian Navy commands, units and establishments to sustain the fight against maritime crime and ensure the nation’s waters remain secure from criminal activities.
According to him, the engagement, which came four months after he assumed office as Chief of the Naval Staff, was aimed at reviewing and repositioning naval operations across all spectrums in line with the Nigerian Navy’s Total Spectrum Maritime Strategy.
The CNS said the initiative followed an extensive operational tour of naval formations across the country where he interacted with personnel and consulted key stakeholders to enhance operational effectiveness.
He noted that the engagements were part of his vision to build a modern, agile and professional naval force capable of securing Nigeria’s maritime interests and supporting national security objectives in collaboration with other security agencies.
Abbas commended the achievements recorded under the Nigerian Navy’s flagship operation, Operation Delta Sentinel, as well as other ongoing naval operations.
He said increased intelligence-led and technology-driven operations had led to major seizures of stolen crude oil, the destruction of illegal refining sites, arrests of suspected illegal bunkerers and improved search-and-rescue operations.
The naval chief added that the sustained operations had helped maintain zero piracy incidents in Nigerian waters, boosted oil production and prevented the loss of billions of naira to criminal activities.
He assured that the Federal Government remained committed to strengthening naval operations through strategic investments while also improving the welfare of personnel.
Abbas also acknowledged the contributions of the Nigerian Navy to ongoing counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency operations across various joint theatres in the country.
He urged commanders to sustain collaboration with other armed services and security agencies, stressing that expectations from the Presidency were high and must be met with dedication and professionalism.
The CNS further emphasised the importance of discipline, integrity, merit and accountability in leadership, noting that merit-based recognition would continue to motivate personnel.
He also charged commanders to take personal responsibility for the men and resources under their command and ensure that available resources are used effectively to strengthen the service.
