The Ministry of Defence, MOD, has assured of its full support to the Nigerian Navy (NN) in carrying out its constitutional mandate of securing the nation’s maritime environment.
Mr. Musa Istifanus, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Defense, gave the assurance today, on the occasion of his maiden familiarization visit to the Naval Headquarters in Abuja.
Mr Istifanus also intimated that the senior staff of the ministry had resolved to work closely with the leadership of the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) towards having a safer and secured Nigeria, stressing that this is the desired priority especially at this critical time in the history of the country.
The Permanent Secretary further stated that the Ministry is open to receive inputs from the NN at any time and offer all necessary assistance that will enable the Service carry out its responsibilities.
He also assured that the Ministry will properly look at the brief presented by the NN and act accordingly.
Speaking earlier, the Chief of the Naval Staff CNS, Vice Admiral Awwal Gambo, expressed appreciation to the Permanent Secretary for his proactive efforts as shown by his familiarization visit, while also acknowledging the important role of the Permanent Secretary MOD, who serves as the chief accounting officer of the Ministry.
He said that the office of the Permanent Secretary is equally noted to be responsible for liaison between departments in the Ministry as well as processing of requirements of the AFN. The CNS appreciated the prompt attention by the Office which has immensely contributed to the successes recorded so far by the NN in securing the nation’s maritime environment.
Furthermore, the CNS assured that the visit will further strengthen the existing cordial working relationship between the Office of the Permanent Secretary and the NN.
The visit, which witnessed exchange of souvenirs between the CNS and the Permanent Secretary, was attended by the Director of Joint Services Affairs, Mrs Olu Mutapha and the Director, Army Affairs, Mr Sunday Attah. Others were the Director Navy Affairs, Mr Fashina Kayode Julius and the Director, Air Force Affairs, Mr Ashibel Utsu Peter, amongst others.
