ABUJA — The Nigerian Navy is in mourning following the confirmed death of its Chief of Operations, Rear Admiral Musa Bello Katagum, who passed away in Egypt on Wednesday, February 18, 2026.
The senior officer, described by colleagues as a “brilliant and dedicated strategist,” died while receiving medical treatment for a brief but undisclosed illness. His passing marks a significant loss for the nation’s maritime security architecture at a time of heightened operational activity.
A Career of Excellence
Rear Admiral Katagum’s rise through the ranks was defined by a series of high-stakes appointments that showcased his intelligence and leadership. Before assuming the critical role of Chief of Operations, he served with distinction as:
- Chief of Naval Intelligence:Â Where he modernized the service’s data-gathering capabilities.
- Defence Headquarters (DHQ):Â Contributing to joint military operations across the federation.
The Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, in a tribute released on Thursday, February 19, described the late Admiral as a “gallant officer” whose tactical insights were instrumental in recent successes against maritime crimes and oil theft in the Niger Delta.
Final Rites and Tributes
In accordance with Islamic rites, the late Admiral was buried shortly after his passing. Naval formations across the country have flown their flags at half-mast as a mark of respect for the departed Chief.
“Admiral Katagum was a sailor’s sailor,” remarked one senior officer at the Naval Headquarters in Abuja. “He was a man of few words but massive action. His vacuum will be very difficult to fill, especially given his deep understanding of our current operational challenges.”
As of Friday morning, February 20, the Nigerian Navy has not yet announced a successor for the position of Chief of Operations. However, the service maintains that all ongoing missions remain on track as a tribute to the late Admiral’s meticulous planning.
