Chief Of Naval Staff Visits The Executive Governor Of Akwa-Ibom State

Chief Of Naval Staff Visits The Executive Governor Of Akwa-Ibom State

On Wednesday, 3 December 2025, the Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Idi Abbas (Admiralty Medal) paid a courtesy visit to His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Akwa-Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno at the Government House in Uyo.

In his remarks, the CNS thanked His Excellency, for the warm reception and explained that he was on a familiarisation of Nigerian Navy Ships, Bases and Establishments in Akwa-Ibom State however it was imperative for him to first pay a courtesy visit to the Governor who is the Chief Security Officer of the State. The CNS went on to highlight the strategic importance of Akwa-Ibom state to the nation being one of the most viable oil producing states. Furthermore, domiciled in the state are critical oil, gas and energy installations with significant contributions to the national economy hence the need to ensure that the maritime environment remains safe and secure for legitimate businesses to thrive in support of the national economy. Consequently, it is important for the NN to build on the existing calm in the state by improving her operations. To achieve this, a whole of society approach was needed as the NN cannot do it alone hence government at state and local levels need to work with the NN. Finally, the CNS thanked the Governor for the cooperation and support he has been giving to all security agencies especially the NN. In particular, he expressed gratitude for the parcel of land allocated to the NN for the establishment of a Naval OutPost at IBENO.

The Governor responded by thanking the CNS for the visit. He went on to congratulate the CNS on his appointment but noted that this was a critical time when national security was facing some challenges hence the nation has high expectations of CNS and other recently appointed service chiefs. His Excellency commended all the Commanders of security units in the state especially the Commander of NNS JUBILEE, for their good work and almost perfect synergy in coordinating security operations in Akwa-Ibom state. Finally, he expressed excitement that very soon, a ferry being built locally for the state by the NN would be ready for commissioning and he invited the CNS to return to Akwa-Ibom for the commissioning ceremony.

Seated with the Governor were the Deputy Governor, Senator (Dr) Akon Eyankeyi, the Secretary to the Government and members of the State Executive Council. In the CNS’ entourage were Chief of Administration Naval Headquarters, Rear Admiral JN Mamman, the Chief of Logistics, Rear Admiral SH Abdullahi, the Chief of Operations, Rear Admiral MB Katagum, the Flag Officer Commanding Eastern Naval Command, Rear Admiral Chidozie Okehie and the Commander NNS JUBILEE, Commodore Abubakar Umar.