Naval chief warns personnel against aiding oil thieves

The Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, has warned naval personnel in the Niger Delta against colluding with oil thieves, urging them instead to uphold “the highest standard of discipline and professionalism” in their operations.

Abbas issued the warning on Monday in Warri, Delta State, during his inaugural familiarisation visit to the Nigerian Navy Ship Delta. The visit was his first to the base since his recent appointment by President Bola Tinubu.

Addressing officers and ratings, the CNS stressed the strategic importance of the Navy’s role in safeguarding the country’s oil resources.

“We are all aware the nation relies on our oil resources. And where are these resources? Mostly within the waters. And we are the custodians of that maritime environment,” he said.

A lot is expected from us all. Let me make it clear: I will not tolerate anybody colluding with crude oil thieves. If you want to go into that, please drop your uniform and join them. But I can assure you, if you join them, we will still get you. It’s either you ship in or you shape out.”

He reiterated that the Navy has zero tolerance for indiscipline and emphasised the need for professionalism across all operations.

Earlier, Abbas told the personnel that his visit was intended to enable him “to have first-hand information and know what is on the ground, which will assist in taking informed decisions.”

He encouraged officers and ratings to freely raise any concerns relating to operations or welfare.

“One of my topmost priorities is your welfare,” he said. “I am aware of the acute shortage of accommodation, and that is why I am here to identify areas where we can put up new structures. I am going to do that, and all I ask from you is to remain disciplined, loyal, and committed to moving this Navy forward. It is our Navy collectively.”

He added: “In line with the Nigerian Navy’s core values of professionalism, integrity and teamwork, hard work will be rewarded, and indiscipline will be severely sanctioned.”

Speaking with journalists after the visit, Abbas reaffirmed that safeguarding the nation’s maritime domain remains the Navy’s priority.

“We are doing everything possible to maintain the peace we have within our maritime environment so legitimate commerce and business can thrive, and by extension, the nation can gain more revenue,” he said.

He stressed that addressing security challenges requires a “whole-of-society approach,” noting that host communities play a crucial role.

“Local communities know who is who in every area. Any intelligence we get from them helps us. We cannot do without them, and they cannot do without us. It is a symbiotic relationship, and we have been working closely,” he added.