The outgoing Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral AZ Gambo CFR, and the incoming CNS, Rear Admiral EI Ogalla, have been the subject of recent media complaints involving delays in the handing over process. The Naval Headquarters’ Director of Information, Commodore AO Ayo-Vaughan, vehemently denied the assertions made by some online media outlets, including Peoples Gazette, opr.news, and hallmarknews, in a statement provided to journalists in Abuja.
The announcement from the Navy clarifies the Nigerian Navy’s handover procedure’s procedural nature. The outgoing CNS is anticipated to give the incoming CNS a thorough introduction after the announcement of the change in the “Watch on deck,” tour significant naval installations, and take part in the formal lowering of the ensign. These events are crucial parts of the preparation for the official handing and taking over ceremony, which is scheduled to occur on Friday, June 23, 2023, in accordance with long-standing naval customs.
The statement also highlights the fact that sister services, such as other arms of the Nigerian military, have set aside specific dates for their respective handing-over and taking-over ceremonies. This demonstrates the methodical procedure used by all military branches during the change in command.
The Nigerian Navy firmly rejects the media reports as untrue and deceptive and urges the general public to ignore them. The Navy claims that these documents include fabrications that could lead uninformed readers astray. The statement reiterates the Navy’s commitment to openness and accountability while encouraging the public to seek information from reputable sources.
The Nigerian Navy seeks to correct any misconceptions and guarantee that the public is informed truthfully by responding to the claims and giving a thorough description of the handover procedure. The declaration highlights the Navy’s commitment to following proper procedures and traditions while ensuring a seamless change in leadership within the company.
