The Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Adm. Emmanuel Ogalla, has assured Nigerians that the Nigerian Navy will up its game towards defeating the enemies of the state and other criminal elements.

Ogalla, who was represented by the Chief of Policy and Plans (Navy), Rear Adm. Ibrahim Dewu, gave the assurance during the Jumaat Service in commemoration of the Navy’s 69th Anniversary on Friday in Abuja.

He said the commitment of the Nigerian navy to defend the territorial integrity and peace of the nation was underscored by its collaborative performances towards ensuring national security.

According to him, the security of the nation’s maritime space is being undermined by a series of illegal activities perpetrated by criminal elements.

“We have intensified our operational engagements to neutralise these economic saboteurs in our maritime environment with resounding success.

“Our success has been made possible with the support of the President, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Bola Tinubu, culminating in the acquisition of modern platforms, which showcased the Navy’s capability and strength,” he said.

The CNS said that his leadership had improved personnel welfare by providing befitting accommodations to ensure their well-being.

He said the anniversary would provide them an opportunity for collective and individual introspection towards upholding the core values of the navy which are professionalism, integrity and teamwork.

He urged them to be disciplined and law-abiding at all times, as well as utilise the occasion to rededicate themselves with renewed focus, enthusiasm and hope towards achieving a prosperous future for the navy.

“As we celebrate, let us also be of goodwill to one another and work together to make the service and Nigeria greater.

In his remarks, the Chief of Policy and Plans, Rear Adm. Dewu, said the readiness of the Nigerian navy to defend the nation was not in doubt at 69.

He said that Nigerians should expect the best from the navy with the new platforms acquired by the government, which include ships and helicopters, among others.

He said the central programmes for the Navy Week would take place in Lagos with an interdenominational church service on May 25 at the Navy town, followed by the sailing competition Gulf Kitty and the inauguration of some projects and the newly acquired platforms.

“Then the high point of the Navy week is the day of the Navy’s birthday, which is on June 1, and the day we are going to have a ceremonial sunset and dinner at Naval Dockyard Lagos,” he said. (NAN)