By Rita Enemuru, Reporting
THE Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, has called for stronger collaboration between host communities and the Nigerian Navy to combat oil theft and enhance security across the nation’s maritime domain.
He said local support was essential to sustaining recent gains in crude oil production and protecting national economic assets.
Vice Admiral Abbas exchanging pleasantries with other senior officers of the Central Naval Command
Vice Admiral Abbas made the call on Monday during his maiden familiarisation visit to the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Delta in Warri, Delta State.
Addressing officers and ratings, the Naval Chief noted that Nigeria depends heavily on the crude oil deposits found within its waters, especially in the Niger Delta region.
He explained that improvements in security had contributed significantly to the rise in crude oil output and foreign exchange earnings.
According to him, “Delta State is home to most of our offshore assets, and there is no doubt that there has been an improvement in the security situation within the Niger Delta.
“By implication, our crude production is on the increase. That translates to more foreign exchange.”
Ratings and officers at the briefing on Monday
Admiral Abbas stressed that security forms the bedrock of economic development, adding that the Navy was committed to safeguarding the maritime environment to support legitimate commercial activities.
“Where there is no security, there cannot be development at all,” he said.
Vice Admiral Abbas emphasised that tackling Nigeria’s security problems required a whole-of-society approach insisting that both the Navy and host communities depended on each other for effective operations.
He described this relationship as symbiotic as it’s beneficial to both parties.
He noted that communities played a crucial role in intelligence gathering because they understood their terrain and knew the individuals who operated there.
Vice Admiral Abbas at the Quarter Guard on arrival at the naval base in Warri
He added that the Navy had been deepening its outreach through medical missions and distribution of palliatives to strengthen public trust.
“That is to make them see us as part of them,” he explained, urging personnel to remain connected to the people they serve, as they were citizens first before joining the Armed Forces.
On internal reforms, Vice Admiral Abbas reaffirmed his commitment to discipline, professionalism and improved welfare for personnel.
He particularly highlighted the acute shortage of accommodation within the service. “One of my topmost priorities is welfare.
“I am aware of the acute shortage of accommodation, and that is why I will look for where we can put up structures,” noted.
The Navy Chief reminded officers that discipline was at the heart of military service, especially in operations that protect Nigeria’s economic lifeline.
“Our operations are very critical to the nation. We are all aware that the nation relies on our oil resources and these resources are mostly within the waters,” he noted.
He warned sternly that he would not condone involvement in crude oil theft, urging any personnel interested in such activities to leave the service.
“Let me make it clear: I will not tolerate anybody colluding with crude oil thieves. If you want to go into that, please take off the uniform and join them—but I can assure you that if you join them, we will still get you,” he warned.
Vice Admiral Abbas stated that his comments were not intended as a threat but as a reminder of the Navy’s values.
“There is no room for indiscipline. We all know the basic value of character is integrity.
“So please, I want you all to be professional in whatever you are doing.”
Vice Admiral Abbas in a group photograph with senior officers of the navy
In his vote of thanks, the Commander of NNS Delta, Commodore Abdul-Azeez Suberu, said the CNS’s visit had reinvigorated the base.
He noted that Admiral Abbas’ engagement and strategic direction had strengthened personnel resolve to uphold professionalism, loyalty and excellence.
Commodore Suberu added that the CNS’s integrity and commitment to welfare had offered a renewed model of leadership.
He pledged that NNS Delta would remain disciplined and aligned with the Navy’s strategic objectives.
“We will keep working to secure the maritime environment and defend Nigeria’s vital economic resources,” he assured.
Stonix News reports that the visit availed the CNS to acquaint himself with the challenges confronting officers and ratings of the base with a view to addressing them.
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