By ZAKAA LAZARUS
The Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, has approved the appointment of Captain Abiodun Abidemi Folorunsho as the new spokesman of the Nigerian Navy.
Captain Folorunsho officially assumed duty on Tuesday, January 27, 2026.
He succeeds Commodore Aiwuyor Adams-Aliu, who led the naval information directorate for over two years. Commodore Adams-Aliu has been redeployed to a higher strategic command as the Commander of Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) BEECROFT, the Navy’s premier base.
The change in leadership was confirmed in a statement signed by the Chief of Policy and Plans, Rear Admiral AO Olodude.
Profile of the New Spokesperson
Born in 1979 in Benin City, Captain Folorunsho brings a robust academic and operational background to the role. A member of the 50th Regular Course of the Nigerian Defence Academy, he was commissioned as a Sub-Lieutenant in September 2003.
His academic credentials span several continents, including:
B.Eng. in Mechanical Engineering (NDA, Kaduna)
M.Sc. in Energy Management (World Maritime University, Sweden)
M.A. in National Security & Strategic Studies (US Naval War College)
M.Sc. in War Studies (National Defence University, Pakistan)
Operational and Strategic Experience
Captain Folorunsho’s career features a blend of engineering, combat leadership, and international diplomacy. He served as a Marine Engineering Officer on several frontline ships and held command roles in internal security operations, including Operation Safe Haven.
Internationally, he served as a Military Liaison Officer for the United Nations in South Sudan and participated in indigenous shipbuilding projects, such as the construction of NNS OJI. Before his current appointment, he served as the Assistant Director of Plans at Naval Headquarters.
Communications and Public Relations Expertise
While a specialized engineer by training, Folorunsho is no stranger to public affairs. He is an Associate Member of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) and has served as a resource person for public speaking and protocol management within the military. His experience includes extensive editorial work on various military journals and compering high-level tri-service engagements.
Decorations and Honors
The new Director is a highly decorated officer, holding the Forces Service Star (FSS), Meritorious Service Star (MSS), and the United Nations Medal. He is also a recipient of the Chief of the Naval Staff Award for best graduating student at both the Junior Staff Course and the Naval Warfare Course.
Captain Folorunsho is married to Mrs. Olawunmi Folorunsho, and they have two children.
