By Faith Anisiobi, The Sight News
The Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS), Idi Abbas, has reaffirmed the importance of manpower development in strengthening maritime safety and advancing Nigeria’s blue economy agenda.
The CNS made this known while receiving the Hydrographer of the Federation and Chief Executive Officer of the National Hydrography Agency, Olumide Fadahunsi, during a courtesy visit to Naval Headquarters in Abuja.
During the meeting, Rear Admiral Fadahunsi thanked the Nigerian Navy for its sustained support to the National Hydrography Agency and outlined key reforms introduced since assuming office. According to him, the Agency has undertaken a review of its operational activities and developed a strategic plan focused on manpower development as a critical driver for safe navigation and the growth of Nigeria’s blue economy.
He noted that personnel of the Nigerian Navy make up a substantial portion of the Agency’s workforce, underscoring the longstanding partnership between both institutions. He also disclosed plans to increase female participation in hydrography in line with the goals of the International Hydrographic Organisation aimed at promoting broader inclusion of women in the field.
Responding, Vice Admiral Abbas congratulated Rear Admiral Fadahunsi on his appointment and commended the strategic direction introduced at the Agency. He urged the Hydrographer to sustain and build upon the achievements of his predecessor.
The Naval Chief assured the Agency of continued support, particularly in manpower assistance and professional capacity development, stressing that a highly skilled hydrographic workforce remains vital to the operational effectiveness of the Nigerian Navy.
He further praised the National Hydrography Agency for its notable hydrographic operations in Cross River and Imo States, describing the achievements as widely recognised and commendable.
The CNS also encouraged the Agency to deepen local capacity development efforts through the production of training charts for the Naval Wing of the Nigerian Defence Academy and Nigerian Navy training institutions.
The visit further reinforced the Nigerian Navy’s commitment to enhancing hydrographic capability as a key pillar of maritime governance, navigational safety, and national economic growth.
