The Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, led a high-ranking military delegation on a courtesy visit to Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, at the Government House in Maiduguri.
The visit aimed at strengthening military-civil cooperation and enhancing security operations around the Lake Chad region.
Vice Admiral Ogalla began his remarks by commiserating with the Government and people of Borno over the recent attack in Konduga Local Government Area, which resulted in loss of civilian lives. He also paid tribute to the fallen naval personnel who were ambushed and killed by insurgents in Baga on June 18, describing the losses as painful but a call to even greater commitment.
“Your Excellency, we are deeply saddened by the unfortunate incidents, particularly the loss of our own men in Baga. But I want to assure you, and the people of Borno, that these setbacks will never dampen our resolve,” the Naval Chief said.
He explained that the Naval Base in Lake Chad, established in Baga, was designed not only for operational military purposes but also as a strategic economic and security hub, facilitating the protection of vital waterways, enabling commerce, and boosting joint security efforts in the northeast.
Vice Admiral Ogalla praised Governor Zulum for his consistent support to the Navy, noting the provision of swamp buggies to assist in clearing the Baga waterways and the Governor’s pledge to construct a five-kilometer access road from Baga to Fish Dam, a crucial route for troop reinforcement and community resettlement.
“His Excellency has shown true leadership. He understands the link between security and development. That is why we are forming a task force immediately to commence the waterway clearing. The equipment is available, and the political will is strong,” he said.
The Naval Chief also highlighted surveillance improvements made possible by long-range cameras donated by the state government. He, however, revealed that one of the cameras was mysteriously knocked down days before the Baga attack an incident under investigation, but assured that the camera would be reinstalled and more would be deployed, courtesy of the Governor.
Ogalla reaffirmed the Navy’s unwavering commitment to defending Nigeria’s territorial integrity, especially in the Lake Chad corridor.
“Our officers know why they signed up. Their morale remains high. They are proud to defend this nation, and they will never retreat. I’ve come to meet with them, assess their welfare, and address the manpower and equipment gaps. We recently deployed 200 more personnel to Baga, and we are working on logistics and accommodation upgrades,” he added.
Responding, Governor Zulum warmly welcomed the Naval Chief and his delegation to Borno State, commending him for personally visiting the troops and the state government during this trying period.
“I can’t recall the last time a Chief of Naval Staff visited Baga. This tells us a lot about your leadership, your humility, and your commitment,” Zulum said.
“You’ve set a powerful example by not just sitting in Abuja but coming down to see things for yourself.”
The Governor also extended heartfelt condolences to the Nigerian Armed Forces over the loss of officers in recent attacks, praying for the repose of their souls and comfort for their families.
While acknowledging that Borno has seen a spike in attacks in recent months, Zulum expressed confidence in the military’s efforts, citing recent successes against insurgents and the gradual return of stability in some formerly volatile areas.
“In the last two months, the tide has started turning. Many insurgents have been neutralized. We are witnessing a return to peace in several locations, and it is because of renewed synergy among the security agencies,” he said.
Olusola Akintonde