Paragraph 1: A Visit of Encouragement and Strategic Direction
Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, the Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), embarked on an operational visit to the Naval Base in Baga, Borno State, a strategically crucial location in the fight against insurgency in the Northeast region of Nigeria. This visit, occurring on Saturday, served as a platform for the CNS to commend the navy officers stationed at the base for their recent successes against the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), a notorious terrorist group operating within the Lake Chad basin. The CNS acknowledged the bravery and effectiveness of the troops in repelling ISWAP attacks, highlighting the significant casualties inflicted upon the insurgents during their attempts to breach the Naval Base. This visit underscored the importance of the Baga Naval Base in the ongoing counter-insurgency operations.
Paragraph 2: Shifting the Battleground – Taking the Fight to the Enemy
Beyond commendation, Vice Admiral Ogalla’s visit carried a clear directive for the naval personnel: to shift from a defensive posture to an offensive one. He urged the troops to actively pursue the insurgents into their enclaves across Lake Chad, disrupting their operations and preventing further attacks. The CNS emphasized the proactive approach necessary to neutralize the threat posed by ISWAP, emphasizing the need to dismantle their networks and cripple their ability to regroup and launch attacks. This proactive stance signals a more aggressive approach in the fight against insurgency, aiming to preempt attacks rather than simply react to them.
Paragraph 3: Reinforcements and Resources for Enhanced Operational Capacity
The CNS assured the troops of the Nigerian Navy’s commitment to bolstering their capacity to execute this offensive strategy. He announced that the Naval Headquarters was actively working on deploying additional fighting equipment and manpower to the Baga Base. This boost in resources is aimed at enhancing their operational effectiveness, providing them with the necessary tools and personnel to take the fight to the enemy. The commitment to reinforcing the troops signifies a dedication to providing them with the resources necessary to successfully execute the new offensive strategy.
Paragraph 4: Government Support and Troop Welfare
Recognizing the critical role of the armed forces in national security, Vice Admiral Ogalla emphasized the unwavering support of the Federal Government. He conveyed the commitment of President Bola Tinubu and the military authorities to the welfare of the troops, assuring them that their needs were being addressed. This includes ensuring the provision of adequate resources, equipment, and welfare support to enhance their morale and operational effectiveness. The reassurance of government support acts as a morale booster, emphasizing the importance of the troops’ contributions to national security.
Paragraph 5: Fostering Inter-Agency Collaboration for Enhanced Synergy
Accompanied by Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar, the Theatre Commander of Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK), the CNS stressed the vital importance of inter-military collaboration. He urged the troops to avoid inter-agency rivalries and focus on the common goal of defeating Boko Haram and ISWAP terrorists. This call for unity highlights the importance of a cohesive and collaborative approach between different branches of the armed forces to maximize their effectiveness against the common enemy.
Paragraph 6: Maintaining Morale and Unit Cohesion for Operational Success
In his address to the troops, Vice Admiral Ogalla highlighted the importance of maintaining high morale and strong unit cohesion. He encouraged the personnel stationed at the Baga Battalion and the Naval Base to work together seamlessly, like "twin brothers," emphasizing the need for mutual support and open communication. This emphasis on morale and unity underscores the importance of a strong, cohesive unit for achieving operational success in the challenging environment of counter-insurgency operations. The CNS’s visit, therefore, served not just as an operational assessment but also as a morale booster, reminding the troops of the nation’s support and the critical role they play in safeguarding national security.
