A Virile Naval Force Is Imperative To Safeguard Nation’s Environment –  Magashi

The Honourable Minister for Defence, Major General Bashir Salihi Magashi (Rtd) said it is imperative that the nation builds a virile, forward looking and responsive naval force that will be capable of safeguarding the nation’s maritime environment.

Magashi said this at the 2023 Presidential Fleet Review Maritime Discourse.

“I am highly delighted to be part of this memorable event and consider it a great honour to deliver this keynote address to this esteemed audience of great minds on this auspicious Maritime Discourse, which is one of the key events at the 2023 Presidential Fleet Review in honour of our outgoing President, His Excellency Muhammadu Buhari, the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. 

“First, it is noteworthy to observe the aptness and timeliness of this event, particularly at a period that our great nation is having a sustained and unbroken 20 years of democratic transition, with higher potentials and hopes of a great future. 

“Auspiciously, the Nigerian Navy has continued to play a key role in shaping this great future.

“In this regard, you will agree with me that it is imperative that the nation builds a virile, forward looking and responsive naval force that will be capable of safeguarding the nation’s maritime environment, where die-hard criminals are resolute on carrying out their nefarious activities with detrimental effect on the mainstay of Nigeria’s economy. 

“Consequently, I cannot agree less
with the CNS when he spoke of Mr President providing the catalyst for the Nigerian Navy to function effectively. 

“I also agree with the CNS that the complementary triune factors of the Man, Machine and Process, mirrors the sub-topics of the theme for the Presidential Fleet Review: “Fleet Readiness for National Prosperity”, and sets the tone for this Maritime Discourse.

“Distinguished participants, I encourage us to vigorously examine and appraise the 4 sub-topics of the Discourse in such a way as to provide required tangible strategic direction to enable the Nigerian Navy deliver on its enormous tasks, which are no mean feat even for the most equipped navies. 

“Therefore, as a precursor to the Presidential Fleet Review, I expect this Maritime Discourse to focus on introspecting and interrogating our strategic and operational inclinations towards promoting and supporting our navy adequately. 

“This critical introspection is aimed at first, consolidating our gains and making them fit-for-purpose for enhanced operational effectiveness. 

“Secondly, it is aimed at acknowledging our weakest links and rethinking our strategies with a view to charting new frontiers for improved operational readiness.

“Ladies and gentlemen, it is gratifying to observe that this Discourse will garner inputs and draw inspiration and experiences from some of our allies as well as retired and serving personnel who have experiences to share. 

“As we make inputs and compare
notes, it is important to acknowledge that little efforts ultimately contribute to the larger picture, which I expect will emerge at the end of this Maritime Discourse. So, do not hold back.

“On this note, I wish to most sincerely thank His Excellency Muhammadu Buhari for his unwavering support to the Nigerian Navy and the Armed Forces. 

“I will also like to congratulate our Chief Host, the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Awwal Zubairu Gambo CFR, as well as the officers, ratings and civilian staff of the Nigerian Navy for putting this event together and inviting all of us today. 

“My appreciation also goes to our dear friends and international partners, comprising heads of navies and government agencies, representatives of foreign missions, guest speakers, erudite panel of discussants, vibrant local and international participants for all the insight you will bring to bear on this event. 

I am convinced that this Maritime Discourse will immensely contribute to all facets of our fleet readiness for enhanced national prosperity. 

“I look forward to a very insightful discourse. On this note, I hereby declare the Maritime Discourse and other series of events marked for the Presidential Fleet Review open. Thank you, God bless and Onward Together.” He said.