Calabar: The Nigerian Navy has pledged to safeguard the nation’s energy interests through enhanced inter-agency collaboration. The new Flag Officer Commanding (FOC) Eastern Naval Command (ENC), Rear Adm. Chiedozie Okehie, highlighted this commitment during his official assumption of duty in Calabar.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Okehie emphasized that the mission of the current Chief of Naval Staff is to develop and deploy a highly motivated and professional naval force capable of protecting Nigeria’s maritime interests. He outlined a philosophy focused on discipline, merit, accountability, welfare, and operational excellence to steer the affairs of the Eastern Naval Command.
Okehie noted that the Chief of Naval Staff has defined a clear mission for the Nigerian Navy, aimed at deploying a highly motivated workforce. This workforce is expected to safeguard Nigeria’s maritime interests and be effective in joint operations for defense, pass-ability, and internal stability.
He stated that the ENC must remain at the forefront of this mandate, translating intents into action through discipline, teamwork, and professionalism. The ENC is a key command in protecting Nigeria’s maritime and energy interests, including offshore production and combating sea robbery, crude oil theft, and illegal refineries.
The new commander outlined his leadership approach guided by four pillars: professionalism, operational readiness, welfare as a combat multiplier, and synergy with other security agencies. Okehie commended his predecessor, Rear Adm. Kennedy Ezete, for his service and successes in the command, which included progress in operations and personnel welfare.
Ezete, the 42nd FOC of the Command, attributed his success to the loyalty and dedication of personnel and urged them to extend the same support to his successor. He emphasized that loyalty and dedication, especially by security operatives, are essential for the country’s progress.