Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, the Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), has alleged that certain naval personnel are collaborating with criminals to carry out oil theft and other maritime crimes in the country.
During the decoration ceremony of 29 newly promoted senior officers to the rank of Rear Admiral in Abuja on Wednesday, Ogalla acknowledged the significant achievements but expressed concern about ongoing collaborations between personnel and criminals undermining their efforts.
He issued a stern warning that any collusion with criminals or acts of sabotage would be met with severe sanctions in accordance with the law.
“Your ingenuity, resourcefulness, and integrity will be required to reposition the service in the years ahead,” he said.
Reflecting on the highs and lows of 2023, Ogalla emphasized the crucial role the armed forces must play to ensure the security and prosperity of Nigeria.
He urged the newly promoted officers to demonstrate dedication and unwavering loyalty to the President and the Constitution in addressing the diverse security challenges facing the nation.
The naval chief stressed the need for ingenuity, resourcefulness, and integrity among the officers to reposition the service in the coming years.
He highlighted the ongoing efforts of the Nigerian Navy, in collaboration with other security agencies, to counter oil theft and protect the country’s economic interests.
READ ALSO: Senegal’s Navy Seizes $210 Million Worth of Cocaine
As leaders, Ogalla urged the officers to uphold a zero-tolerance stance towards all forms of illegality and criminal activities at sea or ashore, particularly emphasizing the fight against oil theft.
“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 to all forms of illegalities and criminalities at sea or ashore, particularly oil theft,” he added.
Acknowledging the special occasion of the decoration ceremony, Ogalla expressed gratitude for the substantial support provided by the Federal Government.
He credited this support for advancements in critical areas such as fleet renewal, infrastructural development, and manpower improvements, all of which have positively impacted the nation’s maritime security.
Ogalla extended his thanks to Bola Tinubu for his unwavering support, which, he noted, contributed to the Nigerian Navy’s success in creating a safe, secure, and stable maritime environment for Nigeria’s prosperity.
In closing, he congratulated the families, especially the spouses, for their crucial support in enabling the officers to reach their current positions.
“I want to use this opportunity to congratulate your families, especially your spouses, for being the pillar of support that enabled you to come this far,” he said. #Criminals