Khadijat Yusuf
Abuja
To further consolidate and strengthen it's activities in the coming year, the Nigerian Navy says it will be conducting a joint exercise with the Nigerian Army and the Nigerian Airforce as well as deepen partnership with international Navies to conduct training exercises for capacity building.
The Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla said this at the 2023 ceremonial Sunset and award night at the Naval Unit in Abuja.
"As we enter the new year, we remain focused on achieving our strategic objectives. Plans are ongoing to conduct a joint amphibious exercise with the Nigerian Army and the Nigerian Air Force. The Exercise is aimed at strengthening our capacities in conducting amphibious operations and sea lift capability. We are also deepening our partnership with international navies to conduct training exercises and share best practices. In the ensuing year, the Nigerian Navy intends to host an International Maritime Conference and Regional Maritime Exercise (INCREMEX), which will serve as platform to foster dialogue and collaboration with our regional and international partners. Relatedly, and to support research, innovation and policy development in the field of maritime security, the Nigerian Navy in partnership with the Institute for Security Studies (ISS), South Africa is working to establish the Nigerian International Institute for Maritime Affairs (NIIMA). In the area of fleet renewal, the Nigerian Navy will take delivery of 2x76m OPV from Dearsan Shipyard in Turkiye, 3x46m FPB from Poly Technologies and Jianglong China as well as a 32m FPB from OCEA shipbuilding France among other platforms in 2024. However, to support these new acquisitions, there would be the need to construct new jetties and provide maintenance facilities across various naval bases. Accordingly, the Navy will, as a matter of priority, require financial intervention from the government to address the challenges. This will not only enhance our operational readiness but also create a more sustainable and efficient fleet for generations to come."
The Naval Chief reiterated his mission and vision for the Nigerian Navy is the need to maintain a navy that is professional, capable, and responsive to the demands of the maritime environment. Adding that one of the primary objectives has been to ensure that the fleets are equipped and prepared to meet the evolving maritime security landscape.
Reeling out the achievements and challenges since he assumed office as the chief of Naval Staff 100days ago, Vice Admiral Ogalla charge officers and ratings to stay ahead of the curve by upholding the core values, professionalism, integrity and team work.
"This past year has been a period of significant progress and accomplishment for the Nigerian Navy. When I assumed the mantle as the Chief of the Naval Staff, I laid out clear vision and mission statements as well as my command philosophy. Central to these was the need to maintain a navy that is professional, capable, and responsive to the demands of our maritime environment. One of our primary objectives has been to ensure that our fleet is equipped and prepared to meet the evolving maritime security landscape. This year, we have made significant progress in fleet renewal efforts, with the acquisition of new vessels and the ongoing modernization of existing platforms. We have also continued to invest in maritime domain awareness. Through technological advancements and improved intelligence gathering, we have gained a deeper understanding of the activities within our waters. Furthermore, we have continued to contribute manpower and resources to ongoing land-based operations in the North East, North West, North Central and other security hotspots in the country. This has significantly contributed to the improved security situation in the country."
"Our commitment to operational excellence has been evident in the successful execution of major exercises throughout the year. Some of these exercises include GRAND NEMO AFRICA, OBANGAME EXPRESS 2023, CROCODILE LIFT and SAFE DOMAIN, which saw us collaborate with international and regional partners to combat piracy and other forms of maritime crimes thereby enhancing maritime security in the Gulf of Guinea. Domestically, the Nigerian Navy has taken a firm stance against all forms of maritime crimes, especially the twin evils of crude oil theft and piracy. A number of vessels and individuals involved in crude oil theft have been apprehended through the various Maritime Security Operations conducted by the Nigerian Navy," he added.
Vice Admiral Ogalla further said as a testament of it's commitment to operational readiness, "we recently conducted a comprehensive end-of-year sea inspection involving 13 ships and 2 helicopters as well as a detachment of the Special Boat Service (SBS). This exercise codenamed Exercise NCHEKWA OSHIMIRI, provided a valuable opportunity to assess our combat capabilities and preparedness to face any potential threats. During the 4-day exercise, various naval drills and evolutions were carried out at sea. Some of these include anti-piracy, anti-crude oil theft and anti-Illegal Unreported and Unregulated Fishing (IUUF) operations. Others are Replenishment at Sea (RAS), Gunnery Exercise (GUNNEX), Communication Exercise (COMMEX), fleet manoeuvre among others. Distinguished invited guests, this assemblage of ships is adjudged the highest in recent Nigerian Navy history."
"Beyond operational matters, we have also prioritized the well-being of our personnel. Within my first 100 days in office, I initiated key policy thrusts and welfare projects aimed at enhancing the quality of life of our personnel. Additionally, we have implemented various welfare packages as palliatives to cushion the effects of the current economic realities. A significant highpoint in our activities this year was the successful execution of our civil-military cooperation initiatives. These initiatives, particularly the medical rhapsody conducted across all naval bases, have had profound impact on the lives of countless Nigerians. Besides the tangible benefits of healthcare, the outreaches have also served to strengthen the bonds of trust and understanding between the Navy and the community we serve. By engaging directly with the people, we have shown them that we are not just an armed force, but also a caring and compassionate organization that is committed to their well-being."
"let me state that the Nigerian Navy’s journey is far from over. We face new and emerging challenges, including the dynamic threat of terrorism and the increasing sophistication of maritime criminals. We must remain vigilant and adaptable, constantly improving our capabilities and strategies to stay ahead of the curve. As we move forward, I urge all officers and ratings to remain dedicated to the core values of the Nigerian Navy: Professionalism, Integrity, and Teamwork. Let these values guide your every action and decision. Together, we will ensure that the Navy remains a formidable force for good, safeguarding our maritime domain and protecting the interests of our great nation," he stated.
Vice Admiral Ogalla while appreciating the Commander in Chief Of The Armed Forces, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu said these achievements would not have been possible without his support.
"May I at this juncture acknowledge that these achievements would not have been possible without the unflinching support of the President, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR. We are indeed grateful, Mr President. Let me also extend my deepest gratitude to the Special Guest of Honour, the Secretary to Government of the Federation, who has consistently championed the Navy’s cause. Sir, your relentless support has been instrumental in our progress and success. I wish to also salute the Honourable Minister of Defence and Honourable Minister of State for Defence for your visionary leadership and guidance at all times. The Nigerian Navy is also grateful to members of the National Assembly, particularly the Chairmen, Senate and House Committees on the Navy. We are grateful for understanding the peculiar needs of the Nigerian Navy all through the year. To the Chief of Defence Staff and Service Chiefs, your individual and collective support has been tremendous. We are also very grateful."
The naval Chief also acknowledged the unwavering support of the Naval Wives Association, (NOWA), saying the home front would have suffered if not for their efforts.
"This speech would not be complete without acknowledging the invaluable role played by the Naval Officers Wives Association (NOWA) under the leadership of my amiable wife, Mrs Ijeoma Ogalla. Your unwavering support, sacrifices, and understanding are the bedrock upon which our Navy stands. While we are deployed, safeguarding the nation’s interest, you hold down the home front, ensuring our families are safe and well-cared for. Additionally, your initiative in reaching out to the widows of our fallen heroes exemplifies the compassion and solidarity that defines the Naval family. May I also commend the recipients of tonight’s awards. Whether you have successfully commanded a ship at sea, led a team in a critical mission, or simply gone the extra mile in your daily duties, your dedication and commitment are an inspiration to us all. Remember that your exemplary conduct sets the standard for others to follow. I, therefore, urge you to continue to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, ethics and integrity in all your dealings,"he confided.
The Ceremonial Sunset, an age-long tradition of navies worldwide to mark the end of activities over a period of time. This year’s Ceremony is intended to mark the end of the Nigerian Navy activities for the Year 2023 as well as honour personnel who have distinguished themselves in various capacities during the course of the year.
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