The Nigerian Navy has promised to be more adaptable, resilient, and technology-driven in carrying out its core mandate of protecting the nation’s maritime assets.

The Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, made the disclosure during an interdenominational service to mark the 70th anniversary of the Nigerian Navy at the Navy Protestant Church in Calabar yesterday.

Represented by Rear Admiral Chidozie Okehie, Flag Officer Commanding (FOC), Eastern Naval Command, Abbas said that the Navy has displayed professionalism and integrity in carrying out its core mandate over the years.

He, however, noted that, going forward, the Navy will align with modern trends in surveillance and platform capabilities to conduct its operations.

“Since its establishment in 1956, the Nigerian Navy has grown from a veteran guard, as you call it in those days, to a fully fledged navy that is able to carry out major combat and security operations.

“We are the sentinel of Nigeria’s maritime assets and infrastructure value that is worth billions of dollars and remain ready and committed to continue to protect these assets for the economic prosperity of the country,” he stated.
Also, Abbas attributed the remarkable achievements of the Nigerian Navy to God’s divine grace and favour over the 70 years of its existence, singling it out as a formidable maritime force and a critical pillar of Nigeria’s national security architecture.

Speaking through the Chief of Policy and Plans, Rear Admiral Akintola Olodude, at an Inter-denominational Church Service to mark the anniversary in Abuja yesterday, Abbas expressed profound gratitude to the Almighty God.

“As we mark this historic milestone, we return all glory to God for his grace, mercy and protection over the service through seven decades of honour, sacrifice, resilience and dedicated service to the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

“Since its establishment in 1956, the Nigerian Navy has grown from a modest beginning into a formidable professional and respected maritime force committed to the defence of Nigeria’s territorial integrity and the protection of our maritime interests. Without his divine grace and favour, the remarkable achievement of the Nigerian Navy would not have been possible,” the CNS said.