Nigerian Navy and the Concern for Free, Fair Election

Nigerian Navy and the Concern for Free, Fair Election

With the 2023 general elections drawing closer, one of the major challenges to contend with is the epidemic of insecurity. Stakeholders have expressed concern about the spate of insecurity across the country and the impact it could have on the smooth conduct of the general elections.

The activities of terror groups and bandits will indeed have negative implications on upcoming elections, if not checked.

But the Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Awwal Zubairu Gambo, recently expressed readiness of personnel to collaborate with other security agencies to ensure a smooth and peaceful conduct of the 2023 general election.

Gambo, made the promise in Abuja at
Third Quarter Route March, to develop personnel’s physical and mental alertness for the dynamics of contemporary security operations.

The exercise which commenced from the Naval Unit, Asokoro, Abuja, through the AYA juncture back to the base to cover ten kilometres.

Represented by Chief of Policy and Plans, Rear Admiral SS Garba, explained that the Nigerian Navy has drawn up rules and regulations for the naval force for Nigerians to exercise their civic responsibility and ensure a hitch-free election when called upon.

He said: “It is important that the operational efficiency and combat readiness are predicated on sound mental and physical fitness of the Armed Forces.”

In the face of the current security challenges in the country, the need to keep personnel fit for operation cannot be overemphasized. That is why fitness and mental alertness are among the critical elements of the CNS policy thrust,aimed at emplacing a sound mind in a sound body.

“Therefore, this route march is aimed at keeping us fit for optimal performance in the discharge of our constitutional roles as naval personnel.”

He further charged personnel to maintain cordial relationship with the citizens who they have taken an oath to protect.
Nigeria has become a terra cognita for various acts of terror (armed banditry, herdsmen aggression, kidnapping, train-jacking, etc) and therefore raises theoretical questions of security, defence and development.

He further charged all personnel to show dedication to duty and unflinching support for our democracy and constituted authority.

He, however, urged personnel to remain neutral and apolitical and display professional conduct in the cause of their duties during the 2023 elections.

By Kabir Abdulsalam