Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, has warned officers and ratings of the Nigerian Navy against colluding with criminals to perpetrate oil theft and other maritime crimes.

He gave the warning during the decoration of 29 newly promoted senior officers to the rank of Rear Admiral, yesterday, in Abuja.

Ogalla said 2023 had its highs and lows for the nation, requiring the armed forces to play significant roles to ensure security and prosperity of Nigeria.

The CNS told the officers that the Nigerian Navy and nation required them to be more dedicated and loyal to the President and Constitution in addressing the myriad of security challenges confronting the country.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) quoted him as saying: “Your ingenuity, resourcefulness and integrity will be required to reposition the Service in the years ahead.

“The Nigerian Navy, in collaboration with other security agencies, has continuously strived to protect the economic mainstay of the country through various operations to counter oil theft.”

“While there are significant achievements, there are still cases of personnel colluding with criminals to undermine our efforts.
“Let me, therefore, warn that any form of collusion with criminals or acts of sabotage will be met with stiff sanctions in accordance with the law.”

“In essence, as leaders of the Service, you are expected to be above board and ensure that your subordinates key into the zero-tolerance stance of the Nigerian Navy for all forms of illegalities and criminalities at sea or ashore, particularly oil theft.”

Ogalla said the ceremony resonated deeply with the Nigerian Navy, as it provided a special opportunity to acknowledge the enormous support availed of the force by the Federal Government.