The new Chief of Naval Staff, Rear Admiral Idi Abbas., has officially assumed office on Thursday.
Speaking at the Navy Headquarters in Abuja during the handing-over ceremony, Abbas noted that the country’s maritime, despite its successes, is faced with several challenging including threatened by crude oil theft, sea robbery, illegal fishing, drug trafficking, which endangers Nigeria’s economy and security.
Abbas was nominated by President Bola Tinubu following the shake-up of security chiefs amid alleged coup attempt.
He, however, vow to put more efforts in the fight against crude oil theft, illegal bunkering and other maritime crimes facing the country.
“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.
“These crimes not only undermine our national economy and energy security, but also threaten the livelihoods of our coastal communities and the economic stability and prosperity of our dear nation.
“To confront these challenges decisively, my tenure will be guided by a clear and actionable strategic approach, focusing on strengthening maritime security and combating illegalities, enhancing the operational capability of our fleet through aggressive fleet renewal use of technology, prioritising training and personnel welfare, as well as fostering inter-agency synergy, regional and international collaboration,” Abass said, while speaking on steps to combat the maritime crimes.
The Navy chief attribute his call to service as a privilege and promised to carry out 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.
“I promise to lead from the front and ensure that your welfare remains a top priority. assuring Nigerians that the Navy will work tirelessly to safeguard the nation’s waters and support the growth of the blue economy,” Abbas added.
