New Naval Chief Idi Abbas Assumes Office, Vows to End Oil Theft
The new Chief of Naval Staff, Rear Admiral Idi Abbas, on Thursday, officially assumed office with a pledge to strengthen the fight against crude oil theft, illegal bunkering, and other maritime crimes undermining Nigeria’s economy.
During the handing-over ceremony at the Navy Headquarters in Abuja, Rear Admiral Abbas, who becomes the 23rd Chief of Naval Staff, noted that despite the achievements of his predecessors, the nation’s maritime domain remains plagued by crude oil theft, sea robbery, illegal fishing, drug trafficking, and other threats to national security and economic growth.
He outlined his key priorities to include enhancing maritime security, upgrading the Navy’s fleet through renewal and technology adoption, improving personnel training and welfare, and deepening cooperation with other security agencies.
He said, “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 prosperity of our nation.
“To confront these challenges decisively, my tenure will be guided by a clear and actionable strategic approach — strengthening maritime security, enhancing fleet capability through aggressive renewal and technology use, prioritising training and welfare, and promoting inter-agency, regional, and international collaboration.”
Describing his appointment as a privilege, Abbas expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the opportunity to lead the Nigerian Navy, pledging to serve with dedication, integrity, and loyalty.
He commended his predecessor, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Nkechukwokala, for his “visionary leadership and service,” which he said provided a solid foundation for further progress in the Navy.
Rear Admiral Abbas urged officers to remain disciplined, professional, and committed to teamwork, assuring them that their welfare would remain a top priority. He also promised Nigerians that the Navy would work relentlessly to protect the nation’s territorial waters and support the growth of the blue economy.
President Tinubu had last week appointed new service chiefs for the Army, Navy, and Air Force as part of a major shake-up in the Armed Forces.
Titilope Adako is a talented and intrepid journalist, dedicated to shedding light on the untold stories of Osun State and Nigeria. Through incisive reporting, she tackles a broad spectrum of topics, from politics and social justice to culture and entertainment, with a commitment to accuracy, empathy, and inspiring positive change.
