Mbah honours ex-Naval Chief Ogalla, praises his service to Nigeria

Politics

ENUGU, Nigeria (NPA) — Enugu State Governor, Peter Mbah, has honoured former Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla (rtd.), describing him as a patriot whose military career was marked by courage, professionalism and selfless service to Nigeria.

The reception, organised by the Enugu State Government to mark Ogalla’s successful completion of his tenure, attracted serving and retired military officers and political leaders, including former Senate President Ken Nnamani, former Chief of the Naval Staff, Rear Admiral Alison Madueke (rtd.), and former Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Azubuike Ihejirika (rtd.).

Speaking at the event in Enugu, Mbah said Ogalla earned the admiration of colleagues and his people through exemplary leadership and humility.

“Rank gives you authority, but it does not automatically earn devotion. Love is earned over time through relationships and the way you treat people when no one is watching,” the governor said.

He also commended Ogalla’s contributions to security and human capital development, citing the establishment of a naval base in Ogurugu, Uzo Uwani Local Government Area, and the Navy Secondary School in Umuopu, Igbo Eze North Local Government Area.

“An operational naval base strengthens security today, while a naval school invests in tomorrow’s leaders,” Mbah added.

Representing the Minister of Defence, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, described Ogalla as a disciplined and visionary officer whose leadership strengthened Nigeria’s maritime security.

Musa also praised the developmental progress recorded in Enugu State under Mbah’s administration.

The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, described Ogalla as calm, humble and highly professional, saying his career had inspired younger military officers.

He also commended Governor Mbah for organising the reception, noting that outstanding service deserved recognition.

Chairman of the Enugu State Council of Traditional Rulers, Igwe Samuel Asadu, said the event reflected the state’s appreciation for Ogalla’s distinguished service to Nigeria.

Responding, Ogalla thanked the Enugu State Government, his family, colleagues and friends for the honour bestowed on him.

He praised Governor Mbah’s development initiatives, particularly his approach to tackling insecurity through infrastructure, education and job creation.

“The modern concept of security is not just about weapons. It is about human security, education, employment and improving the capacity of citizens. These are exactly the priorities of the Governor,” Ogalla said.

He also expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for the opportunity to serve as Chief of the Naval Staff and fulfil his vision for the Nigerian Navy.