The appointment comes on the heels of a presidential Decree signed on July 15, 2025, following the appointment of officials in the Ministry of Defence. Rear Admiral Ade Nkwenti Hilary replaces Navy Captain, NGANWA Francis Aime called to serve in another capacity.

While commissioning the official, Vice Admiral Mendoua Jean, cautioned the Deputy Navy Chief of Staff of the hideous task that awaits him which has to be handled with professionalism and dedication.

He enjoined the Deputy Commander to show devotedness and self-confidence bestowed on him by the high command in order to meetup with maritime threats, boost the human resources, constant mastery of information, strict application of reforms, elaboration of national naval projects most especially the Operation Sea Lion on the move slated to take place in New York, USA and couple of others.

As a Deputy Navy Chief of Staff, Rear Admiral Ade Nkwenti Hilary will serve as the second-in-command, directly supporting the Chief of Staff, and acts on their behalf when needed. To this, Vice Admiral Mendoua Jean gave him the road map which involve managing personnel by optimizing the operational capacity, proper use of logistics, overseeing shore establishments and infrastructure, ensuring the readiness of deployable forces like ships and boats, providing strategic advice, and often playing a key role in the development of future naval capabilities and policies.

Rear Admiral Ade Nkwenti Hilary once served in the capacities as, Commander of the 7th Military Sector, Commander of the Limbe Naval Base, Commander of the navy riflemen and Combat Divers Forces, the post he held until his appointment as Rear Admiral on July 15, 2025.