CNS tasks commanders to leverage intelligence, tech to boost naval operations

The Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas has charged commanders of Nigerian Navy commands, units, and establishments to intensify naval operations to defend Nigeria’s territorial integrity and combat all forms of criminality in its maritime environment.

The CNS who gave the charge during a strategic meeting with Flag Officers Commanding, commanders of Tri-Service operations, operations bases and logistics groups, at naval headquarters in Abuja on Monday reaffirmed the importance of upholding the Navy’s core values of professionalism, integrity, and teamwork.

In a statement issued by naval spokesman, Capt. Abiodun Folorunsho, the CNS strategic engagement with the
commanders, 4 months after assuming command of the Navy, was aimed at rejigging all Nigerian Navy operations across all spectrums as outlined in the Total Spectrum Maritime Strategy.

“This followed an extensive operational tour embarked to engage directly with personnel across all NN units and consult with key stakeholders to enhance the Nigerian Navy’s operations. This aligns with his vision to develop a modern, agile, and professional naval force dedicated to securing Nigeria’s maritime interests and advancing national security objectives, in synergy with other security agencies, ” the statement said.

Vice Admiral Idi Abbas also commended the operational successes of the Nigerian Navy’s flagship operation, Operation DELTA SENTINEL, along with other similar operations conducted by the Nigerian Navy.

The CNS also lauded the increase in intelligence-led and technology-driven naval operations, which have resulted in major seizures of stolen crude oil, the destruction of illegal refining sites, arrests of illegal bunkerers and improved search-and-rescue operations by the Nigerian Navy.

He stated that these efforts have ensured zero piracy in Nigeria’s waters, boosted oil production, and saved the nation billions of Naira that could have been lost to criminal elements.

He assured of the Federal Government’s commitment to support the Nigerian Navy through strategic investments that strengthens naval operations and enhances personnel welfare.

The CNS also applauded the significant contributions of the Nigerian Navy in ongoing counterterrorism and counterinsurgency operations across all joint theatres in the country.

He charged Commanders to sustain the effort and continue to collaborate with sister services and other security agencies.

The CNS stated that the expectations from the presidency to the NN are high and the commanders are to work assiduously to accomplish all assigned tasks.

He further emphasised the need to sustain the operational tempo and ensure the gains are not eroded.

At the meeting, the CNS reiterated his command philosophy, emphasising discipline, integrity, merit, accountability, and personnel welfare as key tenets.

Drawing on his leadership ethos, the CNS stated that merit must be rewarded to serve as motivation for others.

He further urged Commanders to take personal responsibility of the men and materiel placed under their care, using allocated resources to better the system.