NAVAL chief hails SBS commandos for daring Oyo hostage rescues

The Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral I. Abbas, has commended operatives of the Nigerian Navy's Special Boat Service (SBS) for their gallantry, professionalism and operational excellence following the successful rescue of abducted students and teachers in Oyo State.

The Naval Chief praised the elite unit for its exceptional performance during the intelligence-led joint operation carried out alongside members of the Joint Inter-Agency Task Force, describing the mission as a clear demonstration of the Nigerian Navy's growing contribution to internal security operations across the country.

In a statement released through official Navy channels, Vice Admiral Abbas lauded the SBS operatives for their courage and dedication, noting that their actions were instrumental to the successful rescue of the victims.

"I commend the Nigerian Navy Special Boat Service for their outstanding role in the successful rescue of the abducted students and teachers in Oyo State," the Chief of the Naval Staff stated.

He added: "Your courage, professionalism, and exceptional operational competence, demonstrated alongside other members of the Joint Inter-Agency Task Force, were instrumental to the success of the mission. Your unwavering dedication and selfless service contributed significantly to the safe rescue of the victims."

According to him, the operation underscores the high operational standards for which the Special Boat Service is known and further validates its strategic importance in supporting national security beyond the nation's waterways.

"Your exemplary performance reflects the high standards of the Nigerian Navy Special Boat Service and reinforces the Service's critical role in supporting internal security operations," he said.

Vice Admiral Abbas further stressed that the successful operation aligns with his strategic vision of building a highly motivated, credible and professional naval force capable of safeguarding Nigeria's maritime environment while contributing effectively to joint security operations aimed at protecting national sovereignty and maintaining internal stability.

"It also aligns with my vision of sustaining a highly motivated, credible, and professional naval force capable of securing Nigeria's maritime domain while contributing effectively to joint operations in defence of our national sovereignty and internal stability," he added.

The Naval Chief expressed profound appreciation to the SBS personnel for bringing honour to the Service through their courage and sacrifice.

"I convey my sincere appreciation for your gallantry, dedication, and unwavering commitment to duty. Your actions have brought honour to the Service and serve as an inspiration to your colleagues," he said.

He charged the operatives to sustain the momentum by remaining committed to excellence, discipline and professionalism in future assignments.

"I encourage you to remain steadfast in your commitment to excellence as we continue to preserve peace and defend the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Federal Republic of Nigeria," Vice Admiral Abbas said.

The commendation comes in the wake of the successful rescue operation in Oyo State, which has been widely hailed as another major victory for Nigeria's security forces and a testament to the effectiveness of intelligence-driven joint operations involving multiple security agencies. The operation also highlights the expanding role of the Nigerian Navy's Special Boat Service in combating kidnapping, terrorism and other security threats beyond the maritime domain.