By Sumaila Ogbaje
The Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Adm. Emmanuel Ogalla, has vowed to enhance operational readiness of the navy to contain oil theft and other acts of economic sabotage in the country.
Ogalla, represented by the Chief of Communication and Information Technology’ Rear Adm. Zakariya Mohammad, gave the assurance while addressing newsmen during the special Jumat Service in commemoration of the Navy Week Celebration 2024 in Abuja.
He vowed to ensure that the activities of oil thieves in the South-South general area were contained.
The CNS said that the navy under his watch would strive to improve personnel welfare and enhance their operational efficiency through platform acquisitions and infrastructural development amongst others.
This, according to him, is geared towards repositioning the service to actualise her statutory roles.
“Some of the recent acquisitions, which include a 35M Hydrographic vessel, 2 x 32M Fast Patrol Boats and 2×109 SP Helicopters, in addition to several other projects will be commissioned during this Anniversary celebration.
“Sequel to Navy Board approval, the service recently established Nigerian Navy Ship MADUEKE as a Special Operations Composite Base in Enugu.
“This is to improve the Navy’s land-initiated maritime security operations and stall criminals from carrying out nefarious activities within the littorals.
“These successes, acquisitions and infrastructural development have been made possible by the support of Mr President.
“As we celebrate, let us be of goodwill to one another; rededicate ourselves with renewed focus and enthusiasm towards achieving a prosperous future for the Nigerian Navy,” he said.
NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA