The Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, has pledged a deeper commitment of the Nigerian Navy (NN) to inter-agency ties as the service turns 70.
He spoke at an inter-denominational thanksgiving service at the NN Protestant Church, Effurun Barracks, Delta State, on Sunday.
Abbas said the Nigerian Navy is pivoting away from traditional, reactive sea patrols in favour of an intelligence-led, high-tech approach to eradicate piracy, crude oil theft, and illicit trafficking within the nation’s waters.
Speaking through his representative, Commodore Shehu Tasiu, the Commander, NNS Delta, the Navy Chief stressed that the maritime agency is aggressively scaling up its deployment of advanced technology.
He said: “The notable decline in maritime security threats across Nigeria’s territorial waters and the wider Gulf of Guinea stands as a direct testament to the bravery, resilience, and unwavering commitment of our forces.”
The goodwill message of the CNS, which was read on his behalf by Navy Captain Daniel Beecroft, Executive Officer, NNS Delta, challenged officers to double down on discipline, professionalism, and selfless patriotism.
Beyond technology, the naval chief highlighted the critical importance of inter-agency cooperation.
He reaffirmed the Navy’s dedication to synchronising operations and sharing vital intelligence with the Nigeria Police Force and sibling security agencies to create a unified front against crime.
Vice Admiral Abbas expressed profound gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his sustained backing, which he said has paved the way for fleet modernisation and upgraded welfare packages for personnel.
The CNS paid tribute to the fallen heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice for the country.
He called on all Nigerians to keep the armed forces in their prayers as they battle insurgency, banditry, and terrorism nationwide.
The anniversary service was co-officiated by the Base Chaplains, Rev. Fr. (Lieutenant) Emmanuel Michael Uzochukwu (Roman Catholic) and Rev. (Lieutenant) Michael Efoli (Protestant).
Delivering a sermon anchored on Exodus 17:8-16, titled: “Secret of Sustaining Our Collective Victory and Prosperity,” Rev. Efoli noted that the 70-year milestone calls for a deep, sober reflection on the Navy’s achievements.
He said: “Life is a journey filled with inevitable battles.
“The Nigerian Navy is on such a journey, and it will continue to survive, fight, and win across generations.”
Drawing a parallel to the biblical account of Moses lifting his hands, the cleric urged naval policy makers and officers to develop dynamic, winning operational strategies, and strong internal support systems.
He emphasised that sustained triumph relies on absolute faith in God and absolute loyalty to the institution.
He urged the naval personnel to foster healthy partnerships with their host communities.
He admonished them to remain approachable, advising: “Do not distance yourselves from the citizens, and never use your position of authority to oppress the people.”
