By Kennedy Sheyin

The Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Adm. Idi Abbas, has charged his commanding officers to reinforce their commitment to the discharge of duty.

The CNS gave the charge while addressing his leadership officers and principal staff after the 2026 CNS Annual Retreat on Wednesday in Abuja.

The retreat themed “Appraisal of Nigerian Navy Commands for Enhanced Operational Effectiveness”, aimed to assess the performances of the various branches of the navy under the leadership of Abbas in the past year, discuss challenges faced, and formulate solutions.

The naval chief urged his leadership officers to return to their areas of responsibility with renewed vigour, a strong sense of purpose and strategic clarity.

He said the navy must remain unyielding in securing the nation’s territorial waters and combating maritime criminality.

“We must remain unyielding in our commitment to securing our territorial waters, combating maritime criminality and protecting the economic prosperity of our dear nation,” he said.

Abbas said that the retreat would be deemed successful if the outcomes reached at the forum were deliberately implemented by the officers in their duty posts.

“The true end state of this retreat does not lie in the brilliant ideas discussed or the strategies that were proffered.

“The ultimate measure will be the deliberate implementation of the decisions taken here in our respective commands, and to translate those resolutions into tangible operational outcomes,” he said.

He commended his staff for their active participation and dedication displayed during the retreat, describing the forum as “remarkably productive and rewarding”.

He said it reflected unifying resolve, unwavering passion and commitment to the progress of the service.

“We have collectively reviewed our operational readiness, pointed out our challenges, evaluated our strategic objectives and rigorously analysed the evolving security dynamics within our maritime domain.

“More importantly, we were able to identify unique opportunities to improve our operations, enhance our responsiveness and optimise our fleet renewal efforts.

“We also found new ways to strengthen our surveillance capabilities and expand our logistical frameworks.

“With the quality of strategies proffered during our deliberations, I am optimistic towards the future of our navy.

“The insights shared and the strategic roadmap we collectively forged here will serve as compass for years to come,” he said.

Abbas also reiterated his dedication to addressing personnel logistics as well as operational and administrative challenges within the reach of available resources.

“I will continue to prioritise your needs to ensure you have the realistic manpower, equipment and motivation to effectively dominate your areas of responsibility,” he said.

The CNS appreciated President Bola Tinubu for his support towards the service and the continued sustenance of the navy fleet.(NAN)

Edited by Deborah Coker