We’ve Curtailed Piracy, Boosted Oil Output – Naval Chief

The Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, has declared that the Nigerian Navy has successfully dismantled piracy and other maritime criminal activities in the country’s waters, resulting in increased oil production and restored investor confidence in the maritime sector.

Vice Admiral Ogalla made the statement during a regimental parade held in his honour at the Nigerian Military School (NMS), Zaria, his alma mater, where he also commissioned several projects and addressed the student body.

The Naval Chief said that since assuming office, the Navy has recorded significant operational successes, with Nigeria’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) remaining piracy-free since 2022.

“Our determination from the onset was clear: to turn the tide against those criminal elements bringing insecurity into our maritime environment. And I am proud to say we have achieved that.”

Vice Admiral Ogalla declared, “The results speak for themselves, especially in the marked improvement in oil production and the complete elimination of piracy within our waters.”

He highlighted that the Navy’s proactive initiatives, particularly Operation Delta Sanity, carried out in close collaboration with other security agencies and maritime stakeholders, have successfully dismantled criminal networks involved in crude oil theft, illegal refining, and various other maritime crimes.

“These concerted efforts have not only boosted national revenue but have also repositioned Nigeria as a secure and attractive destination for maritime investment,” he noted.

“Thanks to these operations, confidence in our maritime environment has been fully restored. Oil production has surged, revenues have increased, and investors now view Nigeria as a safer, more reliable maritime hub,” he added.

The Chief of Naval Staff emphasised that maritime security is a national imperative, pointing out that Nigeria’s economic stability is deeply tied to the protection of its vital oil assets.

“As the guardian of our maritime environment, the Nigerian Navy is charged with defending the nation’s territorial integrity and sovereignty at sea,” he explained.

“By enhancing security at sea, we are directly reinforcing Nigeria’s economy, since oil remains our principal source of revenue,” he said firmly.

Ogalla also credited the Navy’s successes to the unwavering resilience and dedication of naval personnel across all commands, praising their sacrifice and professionalism.

“I salute our gallant officers and ratings who have shown exceptional commitment and hard work. Without their dedication, none of these achievements would have been possible.”

He, however, stressed the need for sustained vigilance, warning that criminal networks remain adaptive and that security agencies must remain steps ahead through technology, intelligence, and continuous training.

Reflecting on his visit to NMS, the CNS described the moment as an emotional homecoming, expressing gratitude to the institution that shaped his formative years.

“It is with a deep sense of honour and nostalgia that I stand before you today, not just as the Chief of Naval Staff but as a proud product of this great alma mater. This noble institution shaped the foundation of my character, resilience, and leadership.”

Vice Admiral Ogalla rounded off his visit by tying the Navy’s recent successes at sea with the nation’s broader economic rebound, noting:

“We have turned the tide against pirates. We have improved oil production. And by doing so, we are securing Nigeria’s future.”

As part of his contributions to the school, Ogalla commissioned a block of six modern classrooms equipped with smart boards and contemporary learning aids, stating that the intervention was aimed at promoting academic excellence.

“This reflects my belief that learning must evolve with the times. These facilities will equip the boys with the tools to excel academically and prepare for the future.”

He also pledged to deepen collaboration between the Nigerian Military School and the Navy’s military institution in Ikot Ntuen, Akwa Ibom State, in order to strengthen military education and discipline among youths.

Ogalla commended the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General O.O. Oluyede, for renovating the Boys’ Lines and other key infrastructure within NMS. He also praised the Ex-Boys Association for their consistent support in developing the institution.

In his remarks, the commandant of NMS, Brigadier General Owoicho Ejiga, described the CNS’s visit as a historic milestone that would inspire the students and reinforce the school’s legacy of excellence.

“This visit and the commissioned projects will continue to transform NMS into a modern centre of discipline, patriotism, and academic distinction,” he said.