CNS Abbas Begins Operational Tour, Inspects Naval Formations in Makurdi
The Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, on Tuesday, November 11, 2025, embarked on a one-day working visit to Makurdi, Benue State, marking the commencement of his operational tour of Nigerian Navy bases, units, ships, and establishments across the country.
The visit, which signifies the Navy’s renewed commitment to enhancing operational efficiency and inter-agency collaboration, began with a warm reception for the Naval Chief by the Flag Officer Commanding, Nigerian Navy Special Operations Command (NNSOC), Rear Admiral Olakunle Soyemi; the Commander, Joint Task Force Operation Whirl Stroke, Major General M.K. Gara; and the Deputy Governor of Benue State, Barrister Sam Ode (mni).
Vice Admiral Abbas inspected several key naval facilities in Makurdi, including the Headquarters of the NNSOC permanent site at the North Bank of the Benue River, the Nigerian Navy Barracks at Kanshio, the Navy Medical Centre Makurdi, and the temporary site of the Nigerian Navy Provost and Regulating School.
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At the NNSOC permanent site, the CNS undertook a detailed assessment of ongoing construction projects, which include the Administrative Block, 24 x 1 accommodation, 16 x 1 accommodation, 16 x 2 accommodation, and a 40-man arrival hall. He emphasized the need for speedy completion of these projects to enhance personnel welfare and operational readiness.
Addressing officers and men during the visit, Vice Admiral Abbas explained that Makurdi was chosen as the first stop of his tour because of the strategic importance of the recently established Nigerian Navy Special Operations Command. He noted that the Command would play a pivotal role in tackling emerging internal security challenges in the Middle Belt region through coordinated efforts with sister services and other security agencies.
The Naval Chief was accompanied by senior naval officers, including the Chief of Logistics, Rear Admiral S.H. Abdullahi, and the Chief of Operations, Rear Admiral M.B. Katagum.
Also present to receive the CNS were top officials from the Benue State Government, including the Director-General of Homeland Security, Air Commodore Joseph Gbanuwam (rtd); Dr. Livinus Tsar; and Hon. Isaac Adingi, both Senior Special Assistants to the Governor.
Vice Admiral Abbas reaffirmed the Navy’s unwavering commitment to national security and inter-agency synergy, assuring that the Nigerian Navy would continue to operate “Onward Together” in defending Nigeria’s territorial integrity and supporting internal peace operations.
By PRNigeria
