A new chapter has opened in the Nigerian Navy as Rear Admiral Idi Abbas (Admiralty Medal) on Thursday formally took over as the 23rd Indigenous Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS) from Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla (Admiralty Medal) at a colourful ceremony held at the Naval Headquarters, Abuja.
The handover ceremony, which marked the end of an era and the beginning of another, featured the signing of official documents, the handing over of the Navy Ensign and ceremonial binoculars, and the symbolic lowering and hoisting of the Admiralty Flag.
In his valedictory address, outgoing CNS Vice Admiral Ogalla expressed gratitude to God for the opportunity to serve and reflected on the growth and transformation recorded during his 29 months in office. He credited teamwork and discipline within the ranks for the Navy’s operational successes, including the consolidation of Nigeria’s zero-piracy status and the improved efficiency of maritime operations.
Ogalla thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for the trust reposed in him and urged officers and ratings to extend the same cooperation and loyalty to his successor.
Taking over the helm, Rear Admiral Abbas, who was accompanied by his wife and new National President of the Naval Officers’ Wives Association (NOWA), Mrs. Aisha Abbas, expressed profound appreciation to God and the Commander-in-Chief for his appointment. He commended his predecessors for their dedication and pledged to consolidate on their achievements.
Rear Admiral Abbas outlined his commitment to advancing the Nigerian Navy’s operational capacity through enhanced training, improved welfare, and strategic leadership focused on discipline, professionalism, and maritime security.
The ceremony concluded with the traditional lowering of the outgoing Admiral’s flag and the hoisting of the new one a symbolic gesture signalling continuity, honour, and a renewed commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime domain.
