Abuja – As the Nigerian Navy marked its 69th anniversary, the Chairman of the House Committee on Navy in the Green Chamber (HoR), Rt Hon. Yusuf Adamu Gagdi, joined top military brass and national leaders in honoring decades of naval service while also securing strategic agreements aimed at restoring calm in violence-hit parts of Plateau State.
Speaking at the ceremony and dinner event in Abuja on June 1st, Gagdi hailed the Navy’s steadfast contribution to Nigeria’s security, calling it a reminder of national resilience and dedication in the face of growing maritime threats.
The anniversary festivities were preceded by a major operational boost on May 31st when the Navy commissioned three helicopters and three vessels. These additions, Gagdi noted, enhance Nigeria’s capacity to combat piracy, oil theft, and cross-border crimes that continue to undermine the country’s economy.
Gagdi, who was also decorated with a military honor during the event, described the recognition as a shared achievement.
“In a deeply humbling moment, I was conferred with an additional military honor in recognition of my contributions to national security reforms and unflinching legislative support for the Navy and our broader Armed Forces. This award belongs not to me alone, but to all patriotic Nigerians who believe that peace, justice, and security are non-negotiable pillars of a prosperous nation,” he said.
Beyond the celebration, Gagdi held a series of high-level meetings with key security figures including the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, and other service chiefs. The discussions centered on rising insecurity in the Garga area of Kanam Local Government, within the Pankshin/Kanke/Kanam (PKK) Federal Constituency.
He announced that new security arrangements have been concluded and action is imminent.
“I am pleased to inform my constituents and the Nigerian public that concrete, practical solutions have now been agreed upon, and in the coming days, visible action will be taken to restore calm, protect lives, and reclaim hope in that troubled area,” the lawmaker said.
Reaffirming his resolve, the lawmaker emphasized that every resource available—whether legislative or operational will be used to defend communities under threat. “Impunity and violence will not go unanswered. Our resolve remains firm,” he stated.
Gagdi also lauded the leadership of Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla for steering the Navy with focus and clarity, and for deepening its role in safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime interests.
As the Navy celebrates nearly seven decades of national service, the message from leadership remains steady: safeguarding lives and territorial waters is not just a duty but also a national imperative.
