The Nigerian Navy has appointed Captain Abiodun Abidemi Folorunsho as the new Director of Naval Information and official spokesperson of the service. The appointment was approved by the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, Admiralty Medal.
Captain Folorunsho takes over from Commodore Aiwuyor Adams-Aliu, who has been redeployed as the Commander of Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) BEECROFT, the Navy’s premier and largest base located in Apapa, Lagos.
The appointment forms part of the Nigerian Navy’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its leadership structure and enhance effective communication with the public, especially at a time when the military is playing a key role in addressing Nigeria’s security challenges.
As Director of Naval Information, Captain Folorunsho will be responsible for managing the Navy’s public relations, media engagement, and strategic communication. He will also serve as the official voice of the Nigerian Navy, providing information on naval operations, policies, and activities across the country.
The role of Director of Naval Information is considered a sensitive and strategic position within the Nigerian Navy. It serves as the bridge between the service and the public, ensuring transparency while protecting national security interests.
Captain Folorunsho is a senior officer with a strong academic and professional background. He is a member of the 50 Regular Course of the Nigerian Defence Academy, Kaduna, where he began his military career.
He holds a Bachelor of Engineering degree in Mechanical Engineering from the Nigerian Defence Academy. This technical foundation has played a key role in his understanding of naval platforms, engineering systems, and maritime operations.
In addition to his first degree, Captain Folorunsho has acquired extensive postgraduate education from respected institutions both in Nigeria and abroad. He holds a Master of Science degree in War Studies with a focus on Maritime Studies from the National Defence University in Islamabad, Pakistan.
He also earned a Master of Science degree in International Affairs and Defence Studies from the Nigerian Defence Academy, Kaduna. The programme focuses on global security issues, defence policy, and international relations, which are important in modern military operations.
Further strengthening his profile, Captain Folorunsho obtained a Master of Science degree in Energy Management from the World Maritime University in Malmö, Sweden. The university, established by the International Maritime Organization, trains maritime professionals from around the world.
He also holds a Master of Arts degree in National Security and Strategic Studies from the United States Naval War College in Rhode Island, United States. The programme is designed to prepare senior officers for leadership roles in national and international security environments.
In addition, Captain Folorunsho earned a Graduate Certificate in Ethics and Emerging Military Technology from the same institution. This training reflects the growing importance of ethical decision-making and new technologies in modern warfare.
Beyond his academic achievements, Captain Folorunsho has received several awards in recognition of his performance and professionalism during his career.
He was the recipient of the Chief of the Naval Staff Award for the Best Graduating Student of the Junior Course in the Department of Maritime Warfare at the Armed Forces Command and Staff College, Jaji, in December 2009.
He also won the Chief of the Naval Staff Award for the Best Graduating Student on completion of the Naval Warfare Course at the Naval War College of Nigeria in 2019. These awards highlight his excellence in both academic and operational training.
In addition, Captain Folorunsho received the Force Commander United Nations Mission in South Sudan Commendation Award in 2017. The award was given in recognition of his service and conduct during a United Nations peacekeeping mission.
The redeployment of Commodore Aiwuyor Adams-Aliu to NNS BEECROFT is also seen as a key move by the Naval Headquarters. NNS BEECROFT is the Nigerian Navy’s most important base and serves as the headquarters of the Western Naval Command.
As Commander of NNS BEECROFT, Commodore Adams-Aliu will oversee major naval operations in Nigeria’s western maritime domain, including Lagos and surrounding waters. The base plays a critical role in securing ports, combating sea robbery, and protecting Nigeria’s economic assets.
The Nigerian Navy has in recent years increased its focus on maritime security, especially in the Gulf of Guinea. The region has faced challenges such as piracy, illegal oil bunkering, smuggling, and sea robbery.
Through operations like Operation Dakatar da Barawo and Operation Tsare Teku, the Navy has worked with other security agencies to improve safety on Nigeria’s waterways. Communication and public awareness have become important tools in these efforts.
As the new Director of Naval Information, Captain Folorunsho is expected to project the Navy’s activities clearly and professionally. His background in strategy, international affairs, and ethics is expected to support the Navy’s goal of improving public trust and understanding.
The Nigerian Navy has continued to emphasize professionalism, training, and capacity building as part of broader reforms within the Armed Forces. The appointment of Captain Folorunsho aligns with this vision.
With growing public interest in security matters, the Navy’s information directorate plays a vital role in countering misinformation and providing accurate updates on operations.
As Captain Folorunsho assumes his new duties, expectations are high that he will bring clarity, discipline, and strategic focus to the Navy’s communication efforts.
The Nigerian Navy has congratulated him on his appointment and expressed confidence in his ability to serve with dedication and professionalism.