President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed profound sorrow following the death of the Chief of Naval Operations of the Nigerian Navy, Rear Admiral Musa Bello Katagum. The senior military officer passed away on Thursday, February 19, 2026, after a protracted illness.
The Nigerian Navy confirmed that Rear Admiral Katagum died in Egypt, where he had been receiving medical treatment. He has since been buried in accordance with Islamic rites.
A Distinguished Military Career
Until his demise, Rear Admiral Katagum held one of the most strategic roles within the Nigerian Navy. Appointed as the Chief of Naval Operations in November 2025, he was responsible for overseeing all naval deployments, maritime security operations, and the protection of Nigeria’s territorial waters.
Throughout his distinguished career, Katagum served in several key capacities, including:
• Director of Presidential Communication, Command and Control Centre (PC4): Where he coordinated secure communications for the Presidency and high-level security organs.
• Chief of Naval Intelligence: A role in which he was instrumental in strengthening intelligence-led operations to combat piracy and crude oil theft.
• Deputy Defence Adviser, Paris: Representing Nigeria’s military interests in France.
Presidential Condolences
In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu described the Rear Admiral’s passing as a "significant blow to the military and the nation." The President lauded the deceased officer for his "valour, exceptional leadership, and dedication to the mentorship of a generation of officers."
The Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, also extended his condolences to the bereaved family, noting that the legacy of Rear Admiral Katagum would remain a source of inspiration for personnel across the Armed Forces of Nigeria.
Colleagues have described him as a "cerebral and principled leader" who combined tactical firmness with professional humility, particularly in his efforts to modernize Nigeria’s maritime surveillance systems.
Reader Question:
How would you describe the legacy of Rear Admiral Katagum in the context of Nigeria’s ongoing challenges with maritime security and crude oil theft?
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