Rear Adm. Suleiman Ibrahim, has assumed duty as the new Flag Officer Commanding (FOC), Central Naval Command (CNC), Yenagoa, Bayelsa State.
The new FOC, Central Naval Command, Nigerian Navy shortly after assumption of duty pledged to build on his predecessor’s achievements in fighting maritime crimes.
Our correspondent reports that Ibrahim took over from Rear Adm. Ahmed Gaya, who was moved to another location.
Upon assumption of duty, Ibrahim thanked God, while also commending the Chief of Naval Staff, for finding him worthy to take over leadership of the Central Naval Command.
He said that he was ready to move the CNC forward with the help of the Officers, Ratings and Civilian Staff, respectively.
The new FOC, CNC promises to ensure that critical infrastructure is secured for the nation, stating that he would ensure that everybody is carried along, just as he noted that he would also improve on what he saw on ground.
“I am indeed privileged to take over command, as the Flag Officer Commanding Central Naval Command, Yenagoa. I want to use this opportunity to assure the Chief of Naval Staff and by extension Nigerians that I shall not abuse this privilege.
“I understand and recognise the importance of the CNC in sustaining posterity and maritime security in this country Nigeria. I shall do everything within my means to uphold the standard that was established by my predecessor.
“This shall be done by engaging other services and stakeholders, that will enhance the synergy that already exists within the command. I want to call on my commanders to not rest but to raise the antique, I want to wish the outgoing FOC well, in his future endeavors,” he said.
The new FOC said he will continue to call upon the outgoing FOC, for guardians and any other issue that may be required in the cost of his administration.
He assured that the welfare of men, ratings and civilian staff and officers is his paramount priority.
In his valedictory remarks, the outgoing FOC, Rear Adm. Ahmed Gaya said “gratitude and fulfillment that I stand before you today as I bid farewell to the Central Naval Command. My tenure here has been both challenging and rewarding, and I am profoundly grateful for the opportunity to serve our great nation in this capacity.
“When I assumed command in October 2024, I made a firm commitment to enhance maritime security within our area of responsibility and to safeguard the nation’s economic assets and contribute meaningfully to national development. Today, as I take stock of our journey, I am proud to say that, together we have made remarkable progress.
“Our collective efforts in the fight against crude oil theft, illegal bunkering, piracy, IUU fishing and other forms of criminalities have yielded tangible results. Through sustained operations, improved intelligence sharing, and enhanced collaboration with sister security agencies and stakeholders, we have successfully disrupted criminal networks and restored confidence in the nation’s waterways.
“The outcome has been a notable increase in crude oil production. And downward trend in crime and criminality in the Niger Delta. Furthermore, the command witnessed significant strides in fleet recapitalisation and renewal.
“The acquisition and deployment of new platforms, alongside the refurbishment of the existing assets, have strengthened our patrol capacities, improved our response time and enhanced the overall combat readiness of the command. These efforts have positioned the Central Naval Command as a formidable force in safeguarding the nation’s maritime environment.
“Beyond Operations, we also prioritised personnel welfare, recreations and capacity enhancement. Through training, mentorship and infrastructural improvement, we ensure that officers and ratings are better equipped to meet the demands of modern Naval Warfare and Maritime Security Operations.
“I must extend my sincere appreciation to the Chief of the Naval Staff for his visionary leadership and unwavering support. To Principal Staff Officers of the Command led by my hard-working CSO.
“To the Fleet Commander, Commanders, Commandants, Commanding Officers, officers, ratings and civilian staff of the Central Naval Command – You are the true architect of our success, your professionalism, loyalty, and dedication made every achievement possible.
“I also acknowledge the cooperation of our partners, the NDDC, board and other stakeholders whose collaboration has been invaluable. I also want to acknowledge the support I enjoyed from my immediate family, amiable wife and children for their love and support throughout my career.
“As I hand over the mantle of leadership, I am confident that my successor Rear Admiral SD Ibrahim will build upon these foundations and take the Command to even greater height. I urge you all to remain steadfast, disciplined and committed to the ideals of the NN.
“I thank God for his guidance and protections throughout my tenure and for granting us success in our collective mission. I will leave Central Naval Command with fond memories, immense pride and unshakable faith in the continued excellence of the Command,” he said.