Navy Chief Seeks Modern Logistics System to Sustain Fleet,Operations 

The Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Adm. Idi Abbas, has tasked the Nigerian Navy to strengthen its logistics system through improved planning, technology, accountability and efficient resource management to enhance operational readiness.

Abbas gave the charge while declaring open the Nigerian Navy Logistics Seminar 2026 at the Nigerian Navy Logistics College, Dawakin Tofa, Kano.

He said the increasing complexity of naval operations had placed greater pressure on systems responsible for sustaining platforms, personnel and facilities.

The CNS said logistics must ensure that the right resources were available in the right condition, at the right place and at the right time to achieve operational objectives. He said the Navy’s logistics system had evolved significantly, with Logistics becoming a distinct branch to enhance professional management.

He maintained  that professional training had progressed from the Nigerian Navy Supply School established in Calabar in 1978 to the Nigerian Navy Logistics College, which relocated to Dawakin Tofa in January 2022. Abbas urged participants to develop practical recommendations for improving resource planning, procurement, inventory management, accountability and service delivery.

He said greater application of Information and Communication Technology (ICT), integrated logistics information systems and effective lifecycle management were central to achieving the objectives of his Strategic Directive 2026–2027. He also called for improved fleet maintenance and efficient lifecycle support.

Abbas said the changing security environment had expanded the operational responsibilities of the Navy beyond traditional maritime duties to include joint and land-based operations. According to him, the development of the Nigerian Navy Marines and Special Operations Command requires greater attention to land mobility, field sustainment, combat supplies, temporary accommodation, medical support and forward maintenance.

He said the Navy must develop a long-term logistics roadmap to support fleet renewal, indigenous shipbuilding and future operational requirements. He stressed that logistics renewal must correspond with fleet renewal, including adequate provision for infrastructure, spare parts, petroleum, oils and lubricants, technical manpower, maintenance and technology.

Earlier, the Chief of Naval Logistics, Navy Headquarters, Rear Adm. Suleiman .H. Abdullahi, welcomed the Chief of Naval Staff, senior officers, resource persons and participants to the seminar.

He said the gathering brought together military professionals, industry practitioners, technical experts and other stakeholders to exchange experiences and develop practical approaches to repositioning the Nigerian Navy Logistics System for enhanced operational effectiveness.

Abdullahi said the seminar was structured around presentations, panel discussions and interactive sessions to enable participants to examine existing practices, challenges and lessons learned.

He urged participants to engage openly and professionally, particularly on issues affecting the responsiveness, efficiency and effectiveness of the Navy’s logistics system, and to ensure that the support provided adequately meets operational requirements.