Naval Chief urges officers to turn training into action against insecurity
The Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, has charged graduating officers of Junior Course 101 of the Armed Forces Command and Staff College (AFCSC), Jaji, to translate the knowledge and skills acquired during their training into concrete actions to tackle Nigeria’s security challenges.
Abbas gave the charge on Tuesday at the Regimental Dinner Night organised in honour of the graduating students, urging them to deploy their expertise in addressing insecurity and other emerging threats confronting the nation.
The naval chief emphasised the need for resilience, professionalism and innovation, noting that military leaders must be prepared to overcome setbacks and convert challenges into opportunities for growth and success.
Drawing from his personal experience, Abbas recalled how illness prevented him from sitting for his final examinations at the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), leading to his relegation from the 39 Regular Course to the 40 Regular Course.
According to him, what initially appeared to be a devastating setback later became a turning point that strengthened his determination, discipline and commitment to excellence.
“I made a conscious decision not to be defined by that setback. Instead, I used it as a catalyst to become more focused and determined,” he said.
The CNS also recounted his experience at the National Defence College, where his syndicate earned a lower credit in a major exercise, threatening his chances of attaining the coveted C+ grade.
Rather than becoming discouraged, he said he intensified his efforts while maintaining faith in God.
“At the end of the course, I not only attained the desired grade but emerged as the Best Naval Participant and received the award for the Best Research Paper,” Abbas stated.
Reflecting on his career journey, he said his relegation at the NDA ultimately positioned him for greater opportunities in service.
“Had I not been relegated, my career path would have been different. Today, with the exception of the current Chief of Defence Staff, virtually all members of the 39 Regular Course have retired.
“By the natural progression of service, I too would have exited before now and would not have had the privilege of serving as Chief of the Naval Staff.
“This underscores the truth that not every delay is a denial and not every setback is a misfortune,” he added.
Abbas congratulated the graduating officers on successfully completing the six-month course and commended the college’s command and directing staff for producing another set of professional military officers.
He also acknowledged the participation of international officers from Burkina Faso, Chad, Côte d’Ivoire, Ghana, Togo, Rwanda and Zimbabwe, as well as personnel from various government agencies.
Addressing officers who may be dissatisfied with their academic performance, Abbas urged them not to allow temporary setbacks to define their future.
“Your potential is far greater than any grade or evaluation. Use any disappointment as a catalyst for growth, reassess, refocus and recommit yourself to excellence,” he advised.
He equally cautioned outstanding performers against complacency, stressing that sustained success requires consistency, humility and continuous learning.
The naval chief further challenged the graduating officers to apply their training toward combating maritime insecurity, terrorism, banditry, transnational crimes and other security threats facing the country.
He commended the Commandant, directing staff and the entire college community for maintaining a conducive learning environment and ensuring the successful completion of the course.
Abbas also appreciated members of the organising committee, including the college band and catering department, for contributing to the success of the regimental dinner.
Quoting former British Prime Minister Winston Churchill, he reminded the officers that, “Success is not final, failure is not fatal; it is the courage to continue that counts.”
He wished the graduating officers successful careers and prayed for safe journeys for all participants at the event.
