The nominee for Chief of Naval Staff, Rear Admiral Idi Abbas, has pledged to transform the Nigerian Navy into a modern, technology-driven force capable of securing the nation’s maritime and inland waterways against oil theft, piracy, and other security threats.
Speaking before the Senate during his screening on Wednesday, the nominee outlined a comprehensive plan centred on drone deployment, intelligence-led operations, and inter-agency synergy to enhance national security and protect the country’s economic lifelines.
“To further enhance our operations, I intend to prioritise the use of modern technology, particularly unmanned aerial systems (drones). These will strengthen surveillance and interdiction capabilities across both inland and territorial waters,” he told lawmakers.
Responding to questions on the proposed establishment of a Marine Guard or Coast Guard agency, the nominee dismissed the idea as unnecessary, insisting that the Nigerian Navy already performs such functions.
“There is no need for a separate coast guard agency. The Navy’s constitutional and operational mandate already covers those duties. Creating another outfit would duplicate functions. Instead, resources should be used to enhance the Navy’s platforms and logistics,” he said.
He argued that channelling even half of the funds intended for the new agency into strengthening the Navy would deliver far greater impact on maritime security.
On the menace of oil theft and illegal bunkering, the nominee noted that most illicit activities occur in hard-to-reach creeks but acknowledged that their cumulative impact on the economy is immense.
“We have already curtailed the operations of large oil tankers that are refuelled by smaller vessels carrying stolen crude. With drones and digital surveillance tools, we will detect, track, and block such operations more effectively,” he assured.
He emphasised that technological innovation will be at the heart of the Navy’s renewed offensive against maritime crimes, adding that enforcement will also extend to inland waterways, where new challenges have emerged.
Addressing concerns raised by Senator Ahmed Wadada (Nasarawa West) on the growing use of inland waterways for criminal activities, the nominee revealed that the Navy has established a Special Operations Command headquartered in Makurdi, Benue State, to tackle such threats.
“This command is specifically structured to address security challenges along the Benue–Lokoja corridor and other inland routes,” he stated.
Reacting to Senator Adams Oshiomhole’s concerns on the reintegration of repentant insurgents, the nominee called for a more humane and inclusive process.
“While de-radicalisation is important, there is also a moral burden. Families who lost loved ones to insurgents must be consulted and counselled before amnesty is granted. That approach fosters healing and community acceptance,” he said.
Outlining his broader vision, the nominee said the Navy operates under a Total Spectrum Maritime Strategy — a framework designed to address threats ranging from piracy and oil theft to coastal banditry and kidnapping.
“We cannot succeed in isolation. The Navy’s success depends on synergy with other services, security agencies, and communities. It is a whole-of-society approach,” he declared.
After his presentation, Senate President Godswill Akpabio commended the nominee for his clarity and professionalism. The Senate unanimously resolved that he had “presented himself creditably” and should “take a bow” pending confirmation at a closed session.
