Tinubu Mourns Naval Operations Chief, Rear Admiral Katagum

By Momodu Favour

President Bola Tinubu has expressed deep sorrow over the death of the Chief of Naval Operations of the Nigerian Navy, Rear Admiral Musa Katagum, describing his passing as a significant loss to the Armed Forces and the nation at large.

Rear Admiral Katagum reportedly died on Thursday in Egypt after a prolonged illness. He was said to have been receiving medical treatment before his demise and was buried in accordance with Islamic rites.

In a statement issued on Friday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President extended his condolences to the family of the late senior officer, as well as officers and men of the Nigerian Navy and the leadership of the Armed Forces of Nigeria.

“President Tinubu condoled with his family, officers and men of the Nigerian Navy, and the leadership of the Armed Forces over the loss. The President described Rear Admiral Katagum’s passing as a blow to the military and the country, given his vast experience and invaluable contributions to the Nigerian Navy and the Armed Forces as a whole,” the statement read.

The President commended the late rear admiral for his valour, leadership, and dedication to mentoring younger officers, noting that his career was marked by professionalism and commitment to national service.

Until his death, Katagum served as Chief of Naval Operations, a position he was appointed to in November 2025.

During his career, he held several strategic roles, including Director of Presidential Communication, Command and Control Centre (PC4), and Chief of Intelligence of the Nigerian Navy, where he contributed significantly to operational planning and maritime security efforts.

President Tinubu also prayed for the peaceful repose of the officer’s soul and asked God to grant his family, colleagues, and the entire military community the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.

The death of the senior naval officer has drawn tributes from within military circles, with many describing him as a disciplined officer whose service strengthened naval operations and national security architecture.