Nigerian Navy Chief urges political neutrality and pledges oil infrastructure security

Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, the Chief of the Naval Staff, has issued directives to Nigerian Navy personnel regarding both upcoming elections and the security of national economic assets.

Addressing personnel during a route march, Abbas urged military members to remain apolitical, non-partisan, and professional ahead of the 2027 elections. He emphasized that the military's role in supporting the democratic process must remain strictly within constitutional limits and legal frameworks to avoid bringing the service into disrepute.

In a separate engagement with the Oil Producers Trade Section (OPTS) of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Abbas pledged to strengthen the protection of critical petroleum infrastructure. The discussions focused on combating crude oil theft, third-party interference, and threats to offshore assets and export terminals. The Navy highlighted the importance of intelligence sharing and technology in enhancing maritime surveillance to safeguard Nigeria's maritime domain and economic interests.