Navy Promises Renew Commitment in Nigeria Energy Interest

The Nigerian Navy has promised renewed commitment in safeguarding the nation’s energy interest through synergy with other security agencies.

This assurance was given by the new Flag Officer Commanding (FOC), Eastern Naval Command (ENC), Rear Admiral Chiedozie Okehie, during his official assumption of duty on Tuesday in Calabar.

Okehie noted that the mission of the present Chief of Naval Staff is to develop and deploy a highly motivated and professional naval force that is capable of safeguarding Nigeria's maritime interests.

The FOC said his mission will be based on the philosophy, which focuses on discipline, merit, accountability, welfare, and operational excellence in steering the affairs of the Eastern Naval Command.

According to him, "It is pertinent to note that the CNS has defined a clear mission for the Nigerian Navy, which is to deploy a highly motivated workforce.

"A highly motivated and professional naval force capable of safeguarding Nigeria's maritime interests and to be effective in joint operations in the defense, passability, and internal stability.

"This mission encapsulates the brilliant success of the Navy and provides a unified direction

for all commands.

"Accordingly, the ENC must remain at the forefront of this mandate, translating intents into action through discipline, teamwork, and professionalism."

Okehie said that the ENC remains a key command in the Nigerian's maritime and energy interests; 

from protecting offshore production to combating sea robbery, high sea, crude oil tests, and illegal refinery.

He noted that as such, the command has complete and direct influence on national stability and prosperity.

"Therefore, my leadership approach will be guided by four pillars. Number one, professionalism as the core of my command philosophy.

"Two, the operational readiness, where we are going to improve on our mission readiness and improve our intelligence footprint in the conduct of operations.

"Number three will be welfare as a combat multiplier, and of course, number four is synergy and collaboration with other security agencies" he stated.

Okehie commended his immediate predecessor, Rear Admiral Kennedy Ezete for his accountability and service during his tour of duty in the Command.

"To the Nigerian Navy as a whole, under his watch, the Command recorded great progress

in operations and personnel welfare, willing to improve mission outcomes and high morale

among officers and men.

"He leaves behind a command shown by his commitment, vision, and diligence, a solid foundation

which I shall continue to build upon," he said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Ezete, who was the 42nd FOC of the Command, attributed his success to the loyalty and dedication of personnel under his watch.

He urged them to accord same cooperation and support to his successor.

According to him, "loyalty and dedication to duties and responsibilities, especially by security operatives, is what is needed to move this country forward."