Despite heavy rain on Thursday, the Nigerian Navy held a grand pulling-out parade at NNS Quorra Parade Ground in Apapa, Lagos, to honor the immediate past Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla.
The event was attended by top military and political leaders, including Vice Admiral E.D. Abassa and the Chief of Army Staff, alongside senior officers, diplomats, and representatives from various institutions.
In his farewell address, Vice Admiral Ogalla expressed deep gratitude for his years of service and reflected on the Navy's achievements under his leadership.
“This ceremony marks the conclusion of a defining chapter of my life, a journey that began as a young cadet with a dream to serve our nation,” he said.
He paid tribute to fallen colleagues who sacrificed their lives in service, emphasizing their courage and dedication as the foundation of the Navy’s ongoing commitment to protecting Nigeria’s maritime interests.
Ogalla highlighted the Navy’s enhanced operational effectiveness, strategic innovation, and increased training and welfare for personnel during his tenure.
“We intensified the fight against crude oil theft, piracy, and maritime illegality, improving security in the Gulf of Guinea,” he noted.
“We also expanded our fleet with new platforms and advanced local shipbuilding capacity to better defend against external threats.”
Ogalla thanked the President, Commander-in-Chief Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for his trust and support throughout his tenure. “Leading the Nigerian Navy has been the highest honor of my life,” he said.
He also acknowledged the Navy’s officers, ratings, and civilian staff for their professionalism and resilience, crediting them as the true backbone of the service.
Ogalla expressed confidence that the Navy is on a strong trajectory and extended best wishes to his successor, Vice Admiral E.T. Abbas, describing him as a man of integrity ready to lead the force forward.
The ceremony reflected the Navy’s pride, unity, and ongoing dedication to safeguarding Nigeria’s sovereignty on land and at sea, underscoring the importance of teamwork, commitment, and service in protecting the nation’s maritime domain.
