The new Chief of Naval Staff, Rear Admiral I. Abbas, has expressed his commitment to expanding the use of cutting-edge tools in the Navy’s day-to-day duties.
While facing lawmakers during his Senate screening on Wednesday, the 29th of October, 2025, Abbas shared that modern systems, particularly airborne surveillance equipment, would play a major role in battling insecurity on waterways and strengthening naval response.
According to him, technology will save cost and improve response time.
“We will incorporate more technology, including the use of drones, to tackle maritime crime.
“A lot of resources are currently wasted fueling boats to reach remote areas. Technology will help us respond faster and more effectively,” he disclosed.
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During the screening, Edo North Senator Adams Oshiomhole raised the debate on whether the country required a separate coast guard.
Abbas opposed the idea, arguing that the Navy already handles those duties.
“We don’t need a separate coast guard because the Nigerian Navy already performs those functions.
“Creating another agency would duplicate efforts. It’s better to channel those funds toward boosting naval operations,” he said.