Addressing Insecurity on a Global Scale
The Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogala, emphasized that the issue of insecurity extends beyond Nigeria’s borders.
During the graduation ceremony of participants of Naval Warfare Course 7 in Calabar on October 4, Vice Admiral Ogala highlighted that the current global insecurity stems from the detrimental actions of both state and non-state actors who seek to destabilize sovereign nations.
The Need for Long-Term Strategies
In light of the pervasive threat, Vice Admiral Ogala stressed the importance of sovereign nations developing robust, long-term strategies for addressing these challenges effectively.
He underscored the necessity of regularly conducting operations to counter these threats.
Nigerian Armed Forces’ Response
Vice Admiral Ogala acknowledged the proactive efforts of the Nigerian Armed Forces in tackling security challenges across the nation’s six geopolitical zones.
He mentioned that the armed forces are actively engaged in various operations aimed at enhancing national security, including combating insurgency in the North-East, addressing banditry and kidnappings in the North-West, and addressing secessionist agitations in the South-East.
Saluting the Courage of Security Forces
The Chief of Naval Staff commended the dedication and bravery displayed by the security forces in their continuous battle against insecurity nationwide.
He highlighted their significant contributions to bolstering national security, both in the maritime domain and the hinterlands.
A Message to Course Graduates
Addressing the course participants, Vice Admiral Ogala congratulated them and urged them to remain committed to their core responsibility of addressing insecurity in the nation’s territorial waters.
He encouraged them to apply the knowledge and skills acquired during the course, especially in planning and executing maritime operations.
Naval War College’s Role in Career Progression
Rear Admiral Mustapha Hassan, the Commander of the Naval War College, provided insights into the course’s composition.
He mentioned that 22 officers, including a Captain from the Cameroonian Navy, participated in this particular course.
Since its introduction by the college in 2017, a total of 97 officers have completed the program.
The Purpose of the Naval War College
Rear Admiral Hassan elaborated on the primary objectives of the Nigerian Naval War College.
Established to address command, leadership, and management gaps in naval officers’ career progression, it also serves as a center of excellence for naval, joint military operations, and maritime security studies.
Governor’s Commendation and Support
Cross River Governor, Mr. Bassey Otu, expressed his appreciation for the college’s commitment to providing leadership and management training for naval officers.
Represented by his Deputy, Mr. Peter Peter Odey, the governor pledged ongoing support from the state government to facilitate the college’s activities.
The graduation ceremony served as a platform to discuss and acknowledge the broader issues of insecurity while celebrating the achievements of course participants and the role of the Naval War College in enhancing national security efforts.