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Nigerian Navy Debunks Rumors About Handover

The Nigerian Navy authorities have categorically denied the rumors circulating in some media outlets claiming that Vice Admiral Awwal Zubairu Gambo, the outgoing Chief of Naval Staff, refused to hand over his post to Admiral Ikechukwu Ogalla, his successor.

In an official statement, Commodore Adedotun Ayo-Vaughan, the Director of Naval Information, declared these allegations to be false and fabricated.

According to Commodore Ayo-Vaughan, the handover process followed standard practices. As per tradition, the outgoing Chief of Naval Staff is required to provide a detailed briefing to the incoming Chief, conduct a tour of key naval facilities, and perform the ceremonial lowering of the ensign.

He clarified, "The media reports are total lies, misleading, and capable of spreading falsehood to unsuspecting members of the public. It is, therefore, necessary to put the record straight."

The events leading to the formal handing and taking over ceremony have already commenced and will culminate in a public ceremony on Friday, June 23, 2023, in line with long-standing naval traditions.

Commodore Ayo-Vaughan further mentioned that sister Services are also scheduled to conduct their own handing and taking over ceremonies on specific dates.

The public is urged to disregard the malicious publication and erroneous information as nothing more than a figment of the reporter's imagination.

INTRODUCING REAR ADMIRAL EMMANUEL IKECHUKWU OGALLA

Rear Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla: A Distinguished Naval Officer
Rear Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, born on December 20, 1968, in Enugu Ezike, Igbo-Eze North Local Government Area of Enugu State, has made remarkable contributions to the Nigerian Navy. His journey towards excellence began with the attainment of the West African School Certificate from NMS Zaria in June 1987, where he graduated as the top-performing student in Sciences.

As a member of the 39th Regular Course at the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), Rear Admiral Ogalla pursued a BSc in Mathematics, demonstrating his academic prowess. His dedication and outstanding performance earned him the prestigious Sword of Honour as the best naval cadet in his course. On September 16, 1992, he was commissioned as a Sub-Lieutenant and steadily progressed through the ranks, eventually attaining the rank of Rear Admiral on September 16, 2021.

Throughout his career, Rear Admiral Ogalla has undergone specialized training programs to enhance his expertise. Notable among these are the STC NNS QUORRA, Basic Hydrography at the National Hydrographic School in India, and the Junior and Senior Staff Courses at AFCSC Jaji. He also participated in NDC Course 22 and completed the MSc Strategic Studies program at the University of Ibadan from 2014 to 2015.

Rear Admiral Ogalla's service on various naval vessels, including NNS AMBE, ARADU, LANA, EKUN, AGU, QUORRA, BEECROFT, DELTA, and PATHFINDER, has provided him with valuable operational experience. Notably, he actively participated in the ECOMOG Operations in Liberia in 1996 while serving on the board of NNS EKUN. As the Base Operations Officer in NNS PATHFINDER, he played a pivotal role in coordinating anti-illegal bunkering operations and overseeing policing duties within the base area of operations, effectively reducing illegal activities in the maritime area.

Throughout his career, Rear Admiral Ogalla has held significant appointments such as Instructor, CI, and Commandant of NNHS, SO 1 Survey and DD Instruments at NNHO, ADCP, DD Hydro and DPR at NHQ, as well as DS/DARAS at NDC and D Audit at NASS NHQ. Currently, he serves as the DLL at NHQ, where he meticulously analyzes previous naval operations and activities to derive crucial lessons for doctrinal and operational improvements.

Rear Admiral Ogalla's dedication and contributions have not gone unnoticed, as he has been honoured with various awards, including the FSS, MSS, DSS, and GSS. He is an esteemed member of the Nigerian Hydrographic Society, the Nigerian Institute of Management, and the International Earth Rotation Services. Additionally, he holds the esteemed title of Fellow of the Occupational Safety and Health Association of the UK.

In his personal life, Rear Admiral Ogalla is happily married to Mrs Ijeoma Ogalla, and together they have been blessed with two children. When he is not serving the nation, he enjoys activities such as jogging, reading, and engaging in scientific and nature research, showcasing his diverse interests and commitment to personal growth.