The Nigerian Navy has reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty through enhanced inter-agency collaboration.
The new Flag Officer Commanding (FOC), Eastern Naval Command (ENC), Rear Admiral Chiedozie Okehie, stated this on Tuesday during his official assumption of duty in Calabar.
Okehie said the mission of the Chief of Naval Staff (CNS) is to develop and deploy a highly motivated and professional naval force capable of defending Nigeria’s maritime domain and territorial integrity.
He explained that his command philosophy would be anchored on discipline, merit, accountability, welfare, and operational excellence in steering the affairs of the Command.
“The CNS has defined a clear mission for the Nigerian Navy — to deploy a highly motivated and professional force capable of safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime interests and effective in joint operations that promote national stability,” Okehie said.
He emphasized that the Eastern Naval Command occupies a critical position in defending Nigeria’s sovereignty, from protecting offshore assets to combating sea robbery, crude oil theft, and other maritime crimes.
“Accordingly, the ENC must remain at the forefront of this mandate, translating intent into action through discipline, teamwork, and professionalism,” he added.
Outlining his leadership strategy, the FOC said his approach would rest on four key pillars: professionalism, operational readiness, personnel welfare, and synergy with other security agencies.
Okehie commended his predecessor, Rear Admiral Kennedy Ezete, for his commitment and service during his tenure, noting that the Command made significant progress in operations and personnel welfare under his leadership.
He pledged to build on the solid foundation laid by the outgoing FOC to further improve operational efficiency and morale among officers and men of the Command.
In his valedictory remarks, Rear Admiral Ezete, the 42nd FOC of the Eastern Naval Command, attributed the Command’s successes to the loyalty and dedication of its personnel and urged them to extend the same cooperation to his successor.
“Loyalty and dedication to duty remain vital for the progress of the nation, particularly among security operatives,” he said.
