The Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, has announced that the Nigerian Navy has successfully stamped out piracy and other maritime crimes across the nation’s waters, a feat he said has boosted oil production and restored investor confidence in the maritime sector.

Vice Admiral Ogalla made the remarks 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 noted that since he assumed office, the Navy has recorded unprecedented operational achievements, stressing that Nigeria’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) has remained free of piracy since 2022.

“From the beginning, our mission was clear: to turn the tide against criminals threatening our maritime security. Today, I am proud to say we have achieved that. The results are evident in the significant improvement in oil production and the complete elimination of piracy from our waters,” Ogalla declared.

He attributed these achievements to the Navy’s proactive initiatives, particularly Operation Delta Sanity, which was executed in close collaboration with other security agencies and maritime stakeholders. According to him, the operation dismantled criminal networks engaged in crude oil theft, illegal refining, and other maritime crimes.

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

Ogalla emphasised that oil production had surged, national revenues increased, and international confidence in Nigeria’s maritime environment fully restored. “Investors now see Nigeria as a safer, more reliable maritime hub,” he added.

The CNS further underlined that maritime security is central to Nigeria’s economic survival, given the nation’s dependence on oil. “By protecting our seas, we are directly protecting our economy. As the guardian of our maritime domain, the Navy is charged with defending the nation’s territorial integrity and sovereignty at sea,” he stressed.

He praised the dedication and sacrifice of naval personnel across all commands, commending their professionalism. “I salute our gallant officers and ratings. Their resilience and hard work made these victories possible,” Ogalla said.

However, he warned against complacency, noting that criminal groups remain adaptive. He urged security agencies to stay ahead through continuous training, intelligence gathering, and adoption of modern technology.

Reflecting on his return to the Nigerian Military School, Ogalla described the visit as an emotional homecoming. “Standing here today, not only as Chief of Naval Staff but also as a proud product of this great institution, fills me with gratitude. NMS shaped my character, resilience, and leadership,” he said.

As part of his contribution, the CNS commissioned a block of six modern classrooms fitted with smart boards and contemporary learning facilities. He explained that the intervention was aimed at promoting academic excellence and preparing students for future challenges.

“Learning must evolve with the times. These classrooms will give the boys the tools to excel and remain competitive,” he added.

He also pledged stronger collaboration between the Nigerian Military School and the Navy’s institution in Ikot Ntuen, Akwa Ibom, to deepen military education and discipline among young people.

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

In his remarks, the Commandant of NMS, Brigadier General Owoicho Ejiga, described the CNS’s visit as historic, saying it would inspire the students and reinforce the school’s legacy of excellence.

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

Vice Admiral Ogalla concluded by tying the Navy’s maritime successes to Nigeria’s broader economic rebound. “We have turned the tide against piracy. We have increased oil production. And by doing so, we are securing Nigeria’s future,” he said.