CNS seeks stronger civil-military cooperation

The Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas Photo: Nigerian Army

The Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, has called for improved civil-military cooperation in Nigeria, saying it is imperative for enhanced national security and prosperity.

He made the call on Saturday at the inauguration and handover ceremony of the Chief of Naval Staff Special Intervention Quick Impact Project facilitated for the Ibore-Irrua community in Esan Central Local Government Area of Edo State by the former Flag Officer Commanding Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral Michael Gregory Oamen (retd.).

The Chief of the Naval Staff, who was represented at the event by the Director, Nigerian Navy Veteran Affairs, Rear Admiral Raheem Taofeek, said the Nigerian Navy recognised that the security and prosperity of the country were strengthened when communities were empowered through meaningful development.

“This understanding continues to guide the Nigerian Navy’s civil-military cooperation efforts and the Chief of the Naval Staff Special Intervention Quick Impact Project Scheme, which seeks to address critical community needs while fostering stronger bonds between the Armed Forces and the people we serve,” he stated.

Abbas commended Oamen for facilitating the construction of an ultra-modern hall, mini-marts and an IT garden in Ibore-Irrua, while congratulating the community leadership and all stakeholders “whose cooperation and support contributed to the successful completion of the project”.

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He said, “The vision, dedication and commitment of Rear Admiral Michael Gregory Oamen (retd.) to community development are clearly reflected in the successful execution of this project. Through this noble initiative, he has demonstrated that leadership is most meaningful when it positively impacts the lives of others.

“Also, the collective efforts have shown that when institutions and communities work together, sustainable development becomes achievable.”

Speaking further, the CNS said the Nigerian Navy would continue to partner with communities across the country in ways that foster “peace, decision and progress”, adding that the Navy remained committed to strengthening civil-military cooperation and supporting initiatives that promote national development and social cohesion.

Earlier, in a welcome address, Oamen thanked the CNS for giving him the opportunity “to facilitate a naval-backed intervention” in his community.

“This project stands as a practical demonstration of modern civil-military relations and civil partnership. When the military actively invests in social infrastructure, it reinforces the fundamental truth that our military personnel are drawn from these very communities, and our ultimate calling remains the protection and upliftment of the Nigerian people”, he said.