At the Nigerian Navy’s Ceremonial Sunset and Awards Night 2023 held in Abuja on Friday, Sen. George Akume, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), applauded the Nigerian Navy for its instrumental role in boosting the nation’s daily crude oil production to approximately 1.5 million barrels per day by November.
Akume hailed the Navy’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding the country’s maritime domain, stressing their employment of cutting-edge technology for maritime surveillance and consistent presence in the maritime environment. He credited these efforts with ensuring security not only within Nigerian waters but also across the entire Gulf of Guinea.
“Remarkably, the Nigerian Navy’s dedication has resulted in Nigeria being removed from the International Maritime Bureau piracy list. This accomplishment underscores the Navy’s vital contribution to Nigeria’s economic backbone,” Akume stated.
He further praised the Navy for significantly reducing sea robbery, crude oil theft, and other illicit activities within Nigeria’s maritime domain.
Akume lauded the Chief of Naval Staff and Navy personnel for their patriotic commitment to maintaining internal security in riverine and coastal communities, which has contributed to the prevailing peace and tranquility experienced in these areas.
Acknowledging the Navy’s achievements in 2023, Akume expressed anticipation for continued progress in 2024. He reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting the Navy through increased funding, recognizing it as a crucial investment toward economic prosperity, national development, and fortifying Nigeria’s maritime resources.
The SGF urged the Navy to sustain its efforts in fleet recapitalization, capacity building, and enhancing personnel welfare to solidify the gains achieved in securing the nation’s waterways.
He assured that the Federal Government remained dedicated to addressing operational challenges by providing necessary equipment and logistical support to enhance the Navy’s professional performance.
Emphasizing the government’s recognition of effective maritime security as pivotal to national development, Akume pledged collaboration between the executive and legislative arms to enhance the effectiveness of all security forces, including the Navy, in fulfilling their constitutional mandates.
The SGF also encouraged the Navy to view the recognition received at the awards night as a catalyst for continued loyalty to the nation and a call for enhanced dedication to the service.
Addressing the ceremony, Rear Adm. Joseph Akpan, the Chief of Policy and Plans (Navy), stressed the significance of the sunset ceremony, a tradition dating back to the early days of sailing, symbolizing unity and shared mission among sailors and honouring sacrifices made in service.
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