Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, has announced that the Nigerian Navy has successfully defeated piracy and other maritime crimes, leading to improved national security and increased oil output.
Speaking on Friday during the commissioning of new infrastructure at the Nigerian Military School (NMS), Zaria, Ogalla, an alumnus of the school, said the Navy’s operations have yielded “undeniable results,” with no recorded cases of piracy within Nigeria’s Exclusive Economic Zone since 2022.
“Our determination from the onset was clear — to turn the tide against those criminal elements bringing insecurity into our maritime environment. And I am proud to say we have achieved that. The results are evident, especially in improved oil production and the elimination of piracy in our waters,” he stated.
Ogalla noted that piracy, crude oil theft, and illegal refining had long undermined the nation’s economic base, but renewed operational strategies have reversed the trend. He cited Operation Delta Sanityand collaborative efforts with other security agencies as key to dismantling criminal networks and protecting oil assets.
“These operations have restored confidence in our maritime environment. Oil production has improved, revenues have gone up, and investors can now see Nigeria as a safer maritime hub. That is the strategic importance of the work we are doing,” he explained.
He described maritime security as a national duty, noting that safeguarding oil resources directly impacts Nigeria’s economic growth. “By improving security, we are directly strengthening Nigeria’s economy, because oil is still our major source of revenue,” he said.
The Naval Chief praised the dedication of officers and ratings for their sacrifice and commitment to securing the nation’s waters. He urged continued vigilance and adaptation through technology, training, and intelligence-led operations to stay ahead of criminal networks.
During his visit to NMS, Ogalla commissioned a block of six modern classrooms, equipped with smart boards and learning aids, as part of his contribution to advancing education. “This intervention reflects my belief that learning must evolve with the times. These facilities will equip the Boys with the tools to excel academically and to prepare for the future,” he added.
He also pledged to strengthen collaboration between NMS and the Nigerian Navy Military School, Ikot Ntuen, to enhance military education nationwide.
The Commandant of NMS, Brigadier General Owoicho Ejiga, described the visit as a “historic milestone,” commending Ogalla for his support and leadership. He said the projects would further transform the institution into a hub of discipline, patriotism, and academic excellence.
What you should know
Since assuming office, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla has focused on restoring maritime security through strategic operations like Operation Delta Sanity, leading to a reported end of piracy in Nigerian waters and an increase in oil production.
His leadership also emphasizes education, discipline, and national development within the military.
