By Ayomide Otitoju
The Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Idi Abbas (Admiralty Medal), has paid a courtesy visit to the Executive Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno, at the Government House, Uyo, as part of his familiarisation tour of Nigerian Navy formations in the state.
Speaking during the visit, Vice Admiral Abbas expressed appreciation for the warm reception and explained that his tour of naval ships, bases and establishments in Akwa Ibom would not be complete without first calling on the Governor, who serves as the state’s Chief Security Officer. He highlighted the state’s strategic significance as one of Nigeria’s key oil-producing hubs, hosting vital oil, gas and energy infrastructure crucial to the national economy.
The CNS stressed the need to maintain security in the state’s maritime domain to safeguard legitimate economic activities. He noted that while the Nigerian Navy is committed to strengthening ongoing operations, achieving lasting security requires a whole-of-society approach, with support from state and local governments. He thanked Governor Eno for his continued cooperation with security agencies, particularly the Navy, and acknowledged the state’s allocation of land for a Naval Outpost in Ibeno.
In his response, Governor Eno congratulated the CNS on his appointment and commended the Navy’s role in maintaining security in Akwa Ibom. He noted that the country is experiencing critical security challenges, placing high expectations on the newly appointed service chiefs. The Governor praised the synergy among security agencies in the state, with special recognition for the Commander of NNS Jubilee, and expressed optimism about the soon-to-be-completed ferry being constructed for the state by the Navy. He invited the CNS to return for its commissioning.
Also present at the meeting were the Deputy Governor, Senator (Dr) Akon Eyankeyi, the Secretary to the State Government, and members of the State Executive Council. The CNS was accompanied by senior naval officers, including Rear Admiral J.N. Mamman, Rear Admiral S.H. Abdullahi, Rear Admiral M.B. Katagum, Rear Admiral Chidozie Okehie, and Commodore Abubakar Umar.
