Mkpoikana Udoma
Port Harcourt — The newly appointed Flag Officer Commanding, FOC, Central Naval Command, Rear Admiral Suleiman Ibrahim, has vowed to intensify the Nigerian Navy’s campaign against crude oil theft, illegal bunkering, and piracy in the Niger Delta, pledging to sustain the Command’s maritime security gains under the outgoing FOC, Rear Admiral Ahmed Gaya.
Speaking during the official handing and taking over ceremony held at the CNC Headquarters in Yenagoa, Rear Admiral Ibrahim reaffirmed the Navy’s commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime assets and ensuring the stability of the nation’s blue economy.
He said, “I deeply appreciate the Chief of the Naval Staff for the confidence reposed in me to lead this critical Command. I assure you that under my watch, we will consolidate the existing achievements, strengthen inter-agency collaboration, and continue to tackle maritime crimes head-on.”
Rear Admiral Ibrahim emphasized that his command would place premium focus on combating crude oil theft and other illegal activities that threaten Nigeria’s economic lifeline, especially in the oil-producing states under the CNC’s jurisdiction.
He noted, “Our waters must remain safe and productive for legitimate economic activities. We will continue to work closely with other security agencies, the NNPCL, and host communities to ensure that oil and gas infrastructure are protected, and those sabotaging national assets are brought to justice.”
The incoming FOC also assured personnel of improved welfare and operational readiness, describing human capacity development as a key enabler for mission success.
“Our personnel are the Navy’s most valuable resource,” he stated. “We will prioritize training, motivation, and welfare to maintain a professional and disciplined force capable of defending our territorial waters.”
Earlier, the outgoing FOC, Rear Admiral Ahmed Gaya, described his tenure as “both challenging and fulfilling,” noting that the Command made significant progress in maritime domain awareness, fleet improvement, and anti-crude oil theft operations.
He said, “During my tenure, we sustained several successful patrols that curtailed illegal bunkering and piracy in the Central Naval Command area. These achievements were made possible through teamwork, dedication, and the unwavering support of the Chief of the Naval Staff.”
Rear Admiral Gaya expressed gratitude to officers, ratings, and civilian staff for their loyalty and professionalism, urging them to extend the same cooperation to his successor.
“I am confident that Rear Admiral Suleiman Ibrahim will build on our successes and take the Command to greater heights,” he added.
The Central Naval Command, with headquarters in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, oversees naval operations in parts of the Niger Delta region, including the nation’s critical oil and gas infrastructure.
Rear Admiral Ibrahim’s assumption of office signals renewed momentum in the fight against crude oil theft and maritime insecurity, key challenges that continue to impact Nigeria’s oil revenue and environmental sustainability.
