The Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, has reaffirmed the commitment of the Nigerian Navy to safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime domain and supporting national development as the Service marks its 70th anniversary.
Speaking during a special Jumat service held at the Admiralty Estate Central Mosque, Navy Town, Asokoro, Abuja, on Friday, Vice Admiral Abbas described the Nigerian Navy as a formidable maritime force and a critical pillar of Nigeria’s national security architecture.
The Naval Chief expressed gratitude to Almighty Allah for sustaining the Service through periods of peace and challenges over the past seven decades, noting that the Navy’s achievements would not have been possible without divine grace and dedication of personnel.
According to him, the significant reduction in maritime insecurity within the Gulf of Guinea and Nigeria’s territorial waters reflects the resilience, courage and professionalism of officers and ratings of the Nigerian Navy.
Vice Admiral Abbas stated that the Navy remains committed to supporting the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu through enhanced maritime security and national development initiatives.
He commended serving and retired officers and ratings for their patriotism, sacrifices and unwavering dedication which, he said, had transformed the Nigerian Navy into a highly respected Service.
The CNS also paid tribute to fallen heroes who lost their lives in defence of the nation, praying for Allah’s mercy upon them and comfort for their families.
He urged officers, ratings and civilian staff of the Nigerian Navy to remain committed to professionalism, discipline, innovation and selfless service in order to further strengthen the operational capabilities of the Service.
Vice Admiral Abbas further called on Nigerians to continue praying for personnel of the Nigerian Armed Forces deployed across various theatres of operation in the fight against insurgency, terrorism, banditry and other security threats.
In his sermon, the Chief Imam of the mosque, Imam Ruma, admonished naval personnel and Nigerians in general to uphold sincerity, honesty and righteousness in all their dealings, stressing that national unity and sustainable peace could only thrive in an atmosphere of truth and justice.
The cleric urged military personnel to remain God-fearing and dedicated to their constitutional responsibilities, noting that integrity and discipline are essential virtues for nation-building and effective service delivery.
Imam Ruma also offered special prayers for Nigeria and its leaders, including the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, as well as all Flag Officers Commanding, asking Almighty Allah to grant them wisdom, divine guidance and protection in the discharge of their duties.
The special Jumat service formed part of activities lined up to commemorate the 70th Anniversary of the Nigerian Navy.
