In a recent appearance on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily on June 2, 2025, Nigeria’s Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, highlighted the strides and challenges of Nigeria’s maritime security, especially in combating oil theft.
Celebrating the 69th anniversary of the Nigerian Navy, Vice Admiral Ogalla emphasised the critical need for increased manpower. He revealed that the current naval personnel, numbering just over 30,000, are insufficient to effectively patrol Nigeria’s extensive maritime zone, which covers approximately a third of the country’s landmass. To address this, the Navy has increased its recruitment efforts annually, aiming to strengthen its personnel strength.
“The navy is just around 30-something thousand, and our coastal maritime area is vast. We’re continually expanding our recruitment to fill this gap. It’s an ongoing fight, but we’re making tremendous progress,” he stated.
Ogalla praised the remarkable transformation of the Nigerian Navy from its humble beginnings, stating that it has now become a continental force and a recognised global reference. Starting with a handful of vessels supplied by the Royal Navy, the Nigerian Navy has grown into Africa’s third-largest. The Navy’s strategic investments in infrastructure, surveillance technology, and platforms have significantly enhanced maritime security and awareness.
“Our maritime awareness capacity is among the best globally, providing us with comprehensive visibility out at sea,” he noted. Yet, he cautioned that technology alone is not enough. “The human element remains crucial, and we are continuously developing our personnel and equipping ourselves accordingly.”
Regarding oil theft, Ogalla announced a notable decline in recent years, crediting a combined effort among security agencies such as the Navy, Army, and Air Force, along with community involvement. However, he stressed that environmental monitoring and tackling socio-economic issues like unemployment and illiteracy are vital in addressing the root causes of oil theft.
He pointed out that many vessels used by thieves are not Nigerian-owned, complicating prosecution. To enhance legal efforts, Ogalla called for the establishment of specialised courts dedicated to maritime crime, a proposal already presented to the Justice Minister.
“Special courts will enable swift prosecution of offenders,” he explained, adding that the Nigerian Navy is lobbying for their establishment.
Ogalla also reassured efforts to discipline personnel involved in illegal activities. “Those caught engaging in oil theft have faced severe punishment, including demotion and dismissal,” he affirmed, warning that such risks make oil theft too dangerous for honest officers.
To strengthen surveillance, the Navy is expanding its infrastructure and fleet, deploying more sophisticated ships and aircraft to quickly respond to emergencies. Recently, the launch of three ships and three helicopters is part of their strategy to increase operational capacity and effectively combat maritime crimes.
As Nigeria continues to build a stronger maritime security framework, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla remains committed to protecting the nation’s resources and ensuring safer waters for all Nigerians.
