Chief of Defence Staff Lucky Irabor on Saturday assured of the federal government’s commitment to rearm the Nigeria Navy with modern warships and weaponry.

Mr Irabor gave the assurance on the sideline of an event organised by the Nigeria Navy to mark its 66th anniversary held at Naval College in Onne, Rivers.

“The Nigeria Navy is indisputably a critical contributor to the mainstay of the nation’s economy hence efforts must be redoubled to build a navy that we all will be proud of.

“We need to encourage the navy to guarantee the nation’s economic prosperity within the context of the prevailing federal government’s effort to revamp and reposition our economy.

“The federal government is working assiduously to ensure the navy’s past operational handicap regarding insufficient equipment becomes a thing of the past,” he said.

Mr Irabor attributed the peace being experienced at coastal communities across the country to the doggedness of officers of the navy in synergy with other security services.

“I commend the untiring efforts of the navy and the entire Armed Forces for reducing crude oil theft, violent crimes and other illegalities in the nation’s maritime domain.

“The realities of our current security situation have further affirmed the multivalent utility of the Nigeria Navy.

“We are indeed proud to acknowledge navy personnel’s gallantry and service in safeguarding our waters; the Gulf of Guinea as well as their new and expanded continental role,” he said.

The defence chief urged the navy to put to good use the new warships and other platforms acquired by the federal government in its rearmament programme.

(NAN)