Suleiman takes over Central Naval Command, Yenagoa

New Flag Officer Commanding, (FOC), Central Naval Command of the Nigerian Navy in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, Rear Admiral  Apochi Suleiman, yesterday read a riot act to the officers and ratings, warning them to desist from anything that would tarnish the image of the force. Rear Admiral Suleiman, who took over from Rear Admiral Stanley Ogoibe, was until his deployment to the command, the Chief Staff Officer, Naval Training Command Apapa, Lagos.
Speaking at the handing over ceremony, Suleiman promised to lead by example.
“If I am not involved in illegalities, I wonder why my commanders should be involved in any illegality. Let us all work to portray the Nigerian Navy in good light,” he said. He solicited the support of officers and ratings, to achieve the short, medium and long term objectives of the Chief of Naval Staff. He stated that the objectives were geared towards safeguarding Nigerian territorial waters as well as protecting onshore and offshore oil and gas facilities.
In his remarks earlier, the former Commander, Rear Admiral Stanly Ogoibe, said he was grateful for the opportunity to serve. He said he worked within the limits of available resources to reduce oil theft and associated maritime crimes within his area of responsibility.
He noted that the numerous shallow water creeks were more difficult to patrol, as it required flat bottom boats which was in short supply in the Navy’s fleet. He added that small boats were needed for effective patrols. He said more efforts were required to eradicate oil theft.