The Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, has affirmed the Nigerian Navy’s high level of operational readiness and its dedication to the wellness of its personnel. This announcement comes amidst the Nigerian Navy’s 69th-anniversary celebrations, highlighting the force’s evolution into a formidable maritime entity.
A Formidable Maritime Force
Speaking at the Dolphin Golf Club in Navy Town, Ojo, Lagos, Vice Admiral Ogalla described the Nigerian Navy as a force boasting well-trained and highly professional personnel. He emphasized the Navy’s commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime interests and contributing to global maritime security. Ogalla noted that the Navy recognizes the importance of wellness, esprit de corps, and leadership development, encouraging personnel to actively participate in sports to promote professionalism, integrity, and teamwork.
Ogalla highlighted the golf tournament as a bridge-building initiative between the Navy and society, promoting values such as patience, strategy, precision, integrity, and composure under pressure. He urged personnel to remember the Navy’s 69 years of dedicated service and commitment to Nigeria’s peace and prosperity, calling for unity, dedication, and pride in the Navy’s heritage.
Commitment to Personnel Welfare
Ogalla’s emphasis on personnel welfare aligns with recent efforts to improve living conditions and facilities for naval staff. As part of the anniversary celebrations, the CNS commissioned the renovated Ratings Transit Accommodation at the Naval Ordinance Depot (NOD) in Ojo, Lagos, reaffirming the Navy’s commitment to the well-being of its personnel.
The Flag Officer Commanding (FOC), Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral Mike Oamen, also commissioned key infrastructure projects at the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Beecroft base in Apapa, Lagos. These projects, including a solar power facility, a 36-man convenience block, and a 50-man transit accommodation for junior ratings, are aimed at enhancing the welfare, efficiency, and operational readiness of naval personnel.
Operational Readiness and Community Support
The Nigerian Navy has also demonstrated its commitment to operational readiness through various exercises and community outreach programs. The Navy recently concluded its annual sea inspection exercise, “Dein Agbaji,” testing its operational readiness to combat crime in the maritime environment. The exercise involved 15 warships and three helicopters, with the CNS onboard the Nigerian Navy Ship Kada.
In line with the CNS’s strategic directive on civil-military relations, the Navy has also conducted several medical outreach programs in communities across Nigeria. These programs provide free medical services, including checkups, consultations, and medications, to residents in need, fostering stronger ties between the Navy and local communities.
Through its focus on operational readiness, personnel well-being, and community engagement, the Nigerian Navy continues to evolve into a modern, professional, and people-focused naval force, dedicated to safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime interests and contributing to national development.
