Navy Chief hails troops, pledges security commitment

The Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, has praised the troops of the Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), for their courage, resilience, and sacrifices in safeguarding the nation,
reaffirming the Navy’s commitment to protecting Nigeria.

According to a post by the Media Information Officer, Headquarters Theatre Command Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KA, Lieutenant Colonel, Sani Uba, shared on the Nigerian Army’s X account on Thursday, Abass said this on his visit to the Headquarters of the Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), in Maiduguri, Borno State.

Abbas addressed the troops, wishing them a Happy New Year and praising their bravery and sacrifices in protecting Nigeria.

“Your dedication and professionalism in the face of persistent threats are commendable. The Nigerian Navy is committed to maintaining a strong presence on the Lake Chad waterways to support peace, security, and economic revival in the region,” he said.

Interacting with the personnel, he conveyed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s appreciation for operational successes in curbing terrorist activities and urged personnel to sustain their efforts, stressing that security is a collective responsibility.

In their efforts to tackle oil theft, the CNS said he would build on the achievements of his predecessors while integrating artificial intelligence (AI) and modern technology into naval operations.

“There are already plans in place. All I’m doing is building on what is already existing. What I intend to do differently is to integrate more AI and technology, and with that, I believe we’ll achieve a lot. Our crude oil production has already increased, and we intend to push it even higher,’’ he stated.

He also highlighted the Navy’s focus on building partnerships with other security agencies and the wider society to enhance national security.

In a separate event, Abbas spent New Year’s Day with frontline troops in Maiduguri and the Lake Chad Naval Base, commending their sacrifice and service.

The CNS emphasised the Navy’s commitment to denying terrorists the use of Lake Chad waterways and restoring navigation and economic activities in the area.

“Continue to work together, remain vigilant, and sustain the operational successes we have achieved,” Abbas said.

According to Vice Admiral Abbas, the re-opening of waterways has helped the farmers, traders, and transport operators to resume work fully, showcasing the progress in restoring socio-economic activities.

He further emphasised that the Navy’s continued presence and teamwork with other agencies are key to keeping things secure and supporting these local communities.

The Theatre Commander, Operation HADIN KAI, Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar, welcomed the Chief of Naval Staff (CNS) and gave an update on the Joint Task Force’s (JTF) operations, appreciating the Navy for their key role in securing the waters and stabilising the region.

However, the Vice Admiral also visited the Naval Base Annexe along Monguno Road and the Naval Base Lake Chad Command in Baga. He interacted with troops at Fish Dam, conducted a riverine patrol to assess waterway clearance, and concluded the visit with a New Year’s luncheon with personnel.

The Navy Chief also met with Borno State Governor, Babagana Umara Zulum, thanking him for his support and promising to keep working together to secure waterways and boost the economy. Zulum praised the Navy’s efforts and urged them to keep up the pressure on maintaining peace.

Senior military officers attended the meeting, which included briefings, discussions, and some other ceremonial exchanges.

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