Retired Vice Admiral Dan Preston Omatsola, a former Chief of Naval Staff, has issued a stark warning about the deteriorating situation in Nigeria, emphasizing that without immediate corrective measures, the country could face even graver difficulties. Speaking at an event organized by NNS Delta to commemorate the Nigerian Navy’s 70th anniversary, he highlighted the critical role of the armed forces in maintaining national cohesion and stability.
According to Omatsola, the military remains the cornerstone of Nigeria’s unity, and it would be disastrous to underestimate the importance of security institutions. He stated, “The Navy and the Armed Forces, based on my experience, are the bedrock of Nigeria’s unity.” The retired officer expressed deep concern over the current trajectory, saying, “Things are going very wrong in the country. If we are not careful, it will be worse.”
He urged military, paramilitary, and other security agencies to steadfastly fulfill their constitutional duties, noting that escalating insecurity and public fear are driving communities to demand more robust security measures. Omatsola attributed many of the nation’s problems to a lack of discipline, which he described as the bedrock of effective leadership and national development. “Discipline has been absent. If I lack discipline, I cannot guide my wife or my family,” he remarked.
The retired naval chief cautioned against crafting policies or laws out of fear, arguing that decisions made under duress rarely tackle the underlying issues. “You cannot accomplish anything through fear. A law made out of fear will not endure. When creating a law, one must not be afraid,” he added. He called on Nigerians to adopt discipline, patriotism, and collective responsibility to protect the nation’s unity and prevent further security decline.
The Nigerian Navy’s 70th anniversary celebrations include various events recognizing its contributions to national security, maritime safety, and the defense of the country’s territorial waters.