Esther Oseyiomon
The Nigerian Navy has been thrown into mourning following the death of its Chief of Operations, Naval Headquarters, Rear Admiral Musa Bello Katagum, whose passing marks the end of a distinguished chapter in the Service’s contemporary operational history. His death, announced in February 2026, has cast a solemn mood across naval formations nationwide.
In an official statement issued by the Naval Headquarters, the Service confirmed that Rear Admiral Katagum died after a protracted illness. He has since been laid to rest in accordance with Islamic rites, bringing to a close a life defined by discipline, duty and devotion to country.
Until his demise, the late senior officer held the strategic position of Chief of Operations at the Naval Headquarters, a role central to the planning, coordination and execution of naval missions across the nation’s maritime domain. His stewardship coincided with a period of intensified operational engagements and notable gains in maritime security.
Within naval circles, his contributions were regarded as pivotal to recent operational successes recorded in safeguarding Nigeria’s territorial waters and critical offshore assets. Colleagues recall a commander deeply invested in results, yet measured in judgment and firm in resolve.
The Chief of the Naval Staff, alongside officers, ratings and civilian personnel, described his passing as a profound institutional loss. Beyond the uniform, they noted, the nation has lost a patriot whose service record reflected unwavering commitment to the defence of national sovereignty.
Throughout a career that spanned decades, Rear Admiral Katagum’s trajectory was marked by exceptional professionalism and an abiding sense of responsibility. He was reputed for approaching complex security challenges with clarity of thought and strategic precision.
His leadership style blended operational rigour with quiet mentorship. Younger officers found in him a steady guide, while peers respected his candour and loyalty to the ideals and mission of the Nigerian Navy.
At the Naval Headquarters, his tenure as Chief of Operations underscored the critical importance of coordination in a rapidly evolving security landscape. Those who worked closely with him attest to his capacity for long-range planning and decisive execution in moments of urgency.
The Service further acknowledged that his imprint on naval operations will endure beyond his years. His contributions to strengthening maritime surveillance, inter-agency collaboration and mission readiness remain woven into the fabric of ongoing reforms.
As condolences pour in to his family, friends and associates, the Navy has affirmed that his legacy will continue to inspire personnel across the Armed Forces. In mourning Rear Admiral Katagum, the nation salutes a strategist whose watch has ended, but whose influence will echo across the waters he so faithfully guarded.