The newly appointed Commander of Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Soroh, Commodore Chris Akokota, has declared an intensified offensive against oil theft and maritime crimes in the Niger Delta, pledging decisive action to end economic sabotage in the region.
Speaking shortly after assuming command on Friday, February 13, 2026, the naval officer issued a strong warning to oil thieves and maritime criminals, stressing that the era of “business as usual” was over. He promised to adopt an “iron-fist” approach aimed at curbing illegal activities threatening Nigeria’s maritime resources and economic stability.
Commodore Akokota took over leadership from the former commander, Commodore Omobamidele Akinbami, and immediately announced the ship’s integration into Operation DELTA SENTINEL, a key security initiative targeting criminal networks operating within the nation’s coastal waters.
He emphasized professionalism, enhanced inter-agency collaboration, and stronger community engagement as central pillars of his command strategy. According to him, cooperation among security agencies and local communities remains critical to achieving sustainable maritime security.
The commander further charged officers and ratings under his command to uphold discipline and intensify operational efforts to safeguard Nigeria’s maritime domain, aligning their duties with the strategic vision of the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas.
The renewed commitment by NNS Soroh is expected to strengthen ongoing naval operations aimed at protecting oil infrastructure, reducing crude oil theft, and improving security across the Niger Delta waterways.
