The senior officer, identified as Rear Admiral Musa Bello Katagum, reportedly took ill recently and passed away while still in active service, throwing the Naval High Command into mourning. His death was formally announced in a statement from Naval authorities, who described him as a dedicated, disciplined and highly professional officer whose service significantly strengthened naval operations and national security.
Until his demise, Katagum served as Chief of Operations at NHQ, where he played a key role in planning and coordinating operations across Nigeria’s maritime domain, including efforts against piracy, crude oil theft and other maritime crimes. He had previously held several strategic appointments, notably as Chief of Naval Intelligence and at Defence Headquarters, and was widely regarded as a calm, cerebral and principled leader by colleagues and subordinates.
Tributes have continued to pour in from within the armed forces and the wider security community, with the Chief of the Naval Staff and top commanders extending condolences to his family, friends and associates. The Navy said his passing is a huge loss to the service, coming at a time maritime security remains central to Nigeria’s economic stability, but added that his legacy of professionalism and commitment to duty will continue to inspire personnel.
