Emmanuel Ogalla, Chief of Naval Staff (CNS)

Emmanuel Ogalla, Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), has emphasised the need for a spiritual dimension in tackling Nigeria’s deepening security challenges.

Speaking during the commissioning of newly built worship centres at Admiralty Estate, Navy Town, Asokoro, Abuja, Ogalla underscored that military strategy alone may not suffice in the battle against insurgency, terrorism, banditry and kidnapping.

The event, held as part of activities marking the 69th anniversary of the Nigerian Navy, showcased the Navy’s commitment to the holistic wellbeing of its personnel.

Ogalla noted that insecurity in the country had taken on complex dimensions, making it essential to adopt a whole-of-society approach that includes both kinetic and non-kinetic strategies.

“We recognise the challenges that we are facing these days… These are challenges that require a whole-of-society approach,” he said.

“While we look for military solutions, we also believe that spiritual solutions are part of what we need to surmount the challenges. The places of worship are key in shaping the minds and characters not only of our personnel but also of other Nigerians.”

He urged the religious leaders, chaplains and imams to maximise the use of the newly commissioned facilities, stressing their potential impact in shaping character and instilling moral discipline.

Highlighting the Navy’s efforts to boost morale and mental resilience among officers and ratings, Ogalla said: “We take it as a priority to provide the chaplaincy with the necessary requirements to perform their assigned duties.”

Before the commissioning of the new centres, naval personnel in Abuja relied on makeshift locations such as the Mogadishu Cantonment for religious gatherings. The new worship facilities will now provide a dedicated space for spiritual development within the Navy community.

Oluseyi Oladipo, Commander of the Naval Unit in Abuja, acknowledged the significance of the development, noting that the new centres will greatly enhance the conduct of religious activities.

Also speaking at the event, Richmond Diala, Director of Chaplaincy for the Roman Catholic Church, expressed gratitude to the CNS for his unwavering support and commitment to completing the project.