The Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas has charged personnel to strive towards greater professionalism, discipline, innovation and selfless service.
Abbas, during the special Jumma’at service commemorating the 70th anniversary of the Nigerian Navy in Abuja, said the responsibility of moving the Nigerian Navy to greater heights rest on all citizens.
“We must therefore remain steadfast towards enhancing our operational capabilities in order to effectively secure Nigeria’s maritime environment and contribute meaningfully to national security and economic prosperity”, said the naval chief.
He urged Nigerians to pray for officers and ratings of the navy and the armed forces at large that have been deployed across various theatres of operations within the country and beyond.
“As they continue to confront insurgency, terrorism, banditry and other security threats in defence of our nation’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, may the Almighty Allah continue to protect, strengthen, and grant them success in all operations.
“I equally wish to sincerely appreciate our religious leaders, families and all Nigerians for their steadfast prayers and moral support to the Armed Forces and the Nigerian navy in particular”, he said.
The naval chief expressed hope that the Nigerian navy would continue to grow from strength to strength in the discharge of its constitutional mandate, while contributing meaningfully to national development, peace and unity.
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“We give all praise to Allah, for sustaining the navy through periods of peace, hardship, triumphs and challenges, while continually strengthening the service to fulfil its constitutional responsibilities.
“Without his divine grace and favour, the remarkable achievements of the Nigerian navy over the past 70 years will not have been possible,” he said.
According to Abbas, the Nigerian navy currently stands as a formidable maritime force and a critical pillar of Nigeria’s national security architecture, remaining central to the nation’s oil and gas resources, international trade, fisheries and other strategic economic activities.
He noted that the significant reduction in maritime insecurity within the Gulf of Guinea and Nigeria’s territorial waters was a testament to the resilience, courage and dedication of its personnel.
He added that the navy remained committed to supporting the Federal Government’s drive towards national development and enhanced security in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu.
He commended all serving and retired officers and ratings whose patriotism, sacrifices, and unwavering dedication have contributed to transforming the Nigerian Navy into the highly respected organisation it was today.
“As we celebrate our achievements, we must also remember with deep reverence and gratitude, our fallen heroes who paid the supreme price in the defence of our nation.
“These brave men and women sacrificed their lives in the line of duty so that Nigeria may remain safe, secure and united.
“We pray that Almighty Allah forgives their shortcomings, grants them Aljanatul Firdaus and comforts the families they left behind,” he said.
While briefing newsmen on the sidelines after the Jumma’at prayer, the CNS said that the navy attaining 70 years of service was no small feat, and so would be celebrating the milestone in grand style.
“A platinum anniversary in any field, be it a person attaining the age of 70 or an entity, calls for celebration, and we are doing it in grand style.
“We have started by giving praise to Almighty Allah for bringing the us thus far.
“Nigerians should expect a navy that will continue to carry out it’s constitutional mandate, that they will be proud of in years to come,” he added.
NAN
