The Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, has attributed the remarkable achievements recorded by the Nigerian Navy over the past 70 years to God’s divine grace and favour, describing the Service 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, during an interdenominational church service held in Abuja on Sunday to mark the Navy’s 70th anniversary, Abbas expressed profound gratitude to God for sustaining the Service over the decades.

“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 modest beginnings 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 achievements of the Nigerian Navy would not have been possible,” the CNS said.

He reiterated that the Navy would continue to support the Federal Government’s drive towards national development and enhanced security in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

The CNS commended serving and retired officers, as well as ratings, whose patriotism, sacrifice, and unwavering dedication have contributed to the growth and transformation of the Nigerian Navy into a highly respected Service.

In his sermon during the church service, the Director of Naval Chaplain Services, Rev. Commander Joseph Elises, said God would visit the Nigerian Navy at 70 just as He visited the Israelites during their captivity in Babylon at the appointed time.

Quoting Jeremiah 29:10-11, Elises said the number 70 is significant because it represents the end of one era and the beginning of another, praying that God would regenerate the Nigerian Navy and make it even greater.

“Your season of divine visitation has come. A divine encounter is coming for the Nigerian Navy, a divine encounter is coming for Nigeria, and a divine encounter is coming for you and your families. Everyone has a divinely appointed time with God,” he said.