The appointment of Rear Adm. Idi Abbas as the 25th Chief of Naval Staff (CNS) marks a new phase of leadership for the Nigerian Navy, anchored on experience, professionalism, and strategic vision.
A seasoned Above Water Warfare specialist, Rear Adm. Abbas brings over three decades of distinguished military service, characterised by discipline, commitment, and an unwavering dedication to Nigeria’s maritime security.
Born on Sept. 20, 1969, in Nassarawa Local Government Area of Kano State, Abbas began his education at Gwagwarwa Primary School in Kano before proceeding to the Air Force Military School, Jos, between 1981 and 1986.
In 1987, he was admitted into the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) as a member of the 40 Regular Course and was commissioned Sub-Lieutenant on Sept. 10, 1993, upon graduation with a Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry.
Rear Adm. Abbas has undertaken several professional and leadership courses at home and abroad, including the Sub-Lieutenant Technical Course and the Officers’ Long Course in Above Water Warfare at NNS QUORRA.
He also attended the Junior and Senior Staff Courses at the Armed Forces Command and Staff College, Jaji, and the United Nations Military Observer Course in Tanzania in 2009.
He is a graduate of the National Defence College (NDC), Abuja, Course 23, and a Fellow of the Defence College (fdc).
Over his illustrious career, Rear Adm. Abbas has held numerous command, instructional, and administrative positions within the Nigerian Navy.
He served onboard various naval ships — NNS ARADU, NNS DAMISA, and NNS AYAM — as a Watch-Keeping Officer and later became Commanding Officer, Burma Battalion, at the Nigerian Defence Academy.
Naval Assistant to the Deputy Commandant, Armed Forces Command and Staff College, Jaji.
Base Administrative Officer, NNS PATHFINDER.
Maritime Guard Commander, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA).
Commander, Task Group Operation TSARE TEKU.
Flag Officer Commanding, Central Naval Command.
Chief of Naval Safety and Standards.
Chief of Defence Civil-Military Relations, Defence Headquarters.
Senior Research Fellow, Nigerian Army Heritage Centre.
His steady rise through the ranks culminated in his promotion to Rear Admiral on Sept. 10, 2020.
Honours and Professional Affiliations
Rear Adm. Abbas has received numerous military decorations in recognition of his meritorious service, including:
Forces Service Star (FSS)
Meritorious Service Star (MSS)
Distinguished Service Star (DSS)
Grand Service Star (GSS)
Defence General Staff Medal (DGSM)
He is also a member of the Nigerian Institute of Management (NIM) and the International Institute of Professional Security (IIPS).
Known for his calm demeanor, strategic thinking, and results-driven leadership style, Rear Adm. Abbas is widely respected across the armed forces for his integrity and focus on operational excellence.
Outside his professional duties, he enjoys playing hockey and driving. He is married to Mrs. Aisha Abbas, and the union is blessed with two sons.
The new Chief of Naval Staff is expected to bring renewed vigour and operational focus to the Nigerian Navy’s mandate of protecting the nation’s maritime domain, enhancing coastal surveillance, and supporting national security efforts.
