Chief of the Naval Staff (Nigeria)

The Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS) is the highest-ranking officer in the Nigerian Navy. This position is a military appointment held by a commissioned officer of the Nigerian Navy, typically with the rank of Vice Admiral or Rear Admiral. The CNS is responsible for the operational command, administration, and policy of the Nigerian Navy.

The primary functions of the Chief of the Naval Staff include:

• Advising the President of Nigeria and the Minister of Defence on naval matters.
• Overseeing the training, welfare, and discipline of naval personnel.
• Managing the resources and assets of the Nigerian Navy.
• Developing and implementing naval strategies and doctrines.
• Representing the Nigerian Navy in national and international forums.
• Ensuring the security of Nigeria's maritime domain, including its territorial waters and Exclusive Economic Zone.

The appointment of the Chief of the Naval Staff is made by the President of Nigeria. The CNS reports to the Minister of Defence and is a member of the Armed Forces Council. The tenure of office is typically two years but can be extended at the discretion of the President.