The Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla has said the navy’s anniversary celebration was a testament to 69 years of loyal service, sacrifice and commitment to peace and prosperity.
He said this at the Golf Kitty yesterday evening at Navy Town, Ojo, as part of activities for this year’s Navy Week celebration, reports The Nation.
Admiral Ogalla who teed off the tournament, urged officers and ratings to remain steadfast, execute their tasks with unity of purpose, unwavering dedication and pride in naval heritage.
He also pledged to give the gold club a befitting complex in line with the ongoing infrastructural upgrade of accommodation and facilities across naval barracks.
According to the CNS, golfing mirrors the values that define a good naval officer such as patience, strategy, precision, integrity, and composure under pressure.
He said the tournament represented one of several ways the Navy was building bridges with the society, adding that golfing was a platform for friendship and cultural exchanges across the country.
“As we celebrate this year’s anniversary, I urge us to utilise the festive atmosphere to commemorate our milestones and rededicate ourselves towards redoubling our efforts for a credible and efficient Navy capable of national security imperatives.
“Over the years, the Nigerian Navy has grown into a formidable maritime force; well-trained, professional, and highly capable of safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime interests and contributing to global maritime security.
“As we continue to accomplish these giant strides, we will ensure adequate training and improve welfare packages for our personnel. Moreso,The Nigerian Navy will continue to encourage active participation in sporting activities, locally and internationally.
“Beyond our core operational duties, we recognize the importance of wellness, esprit de corps, and leadership development. Sporting events like this tournament, play an integral role in promoting our core value of professionalism, integrity and team work.
“They also help us relax, connect, and renew the bonds that unite us as one force and one family,” Ogalla said.
The CNS also inaugurated a transit accommodation for Naval Ordnance Depot (NOD) Ratings, pledging to provide more facilities to address accommodation deficit in the service.
Admiral Superintendent NOD, Rear Admiral Livingston Izu, said the renovation was another testament of the CNS’ commitment to improving the welfare of personnel.
He said: “The facility was a 10-room structure but now remodelled to 11-room apartment for junior rates serving in the Depot. The Chief of the Naval Staff graciously approved resources for the renovation and upgrading of the building to address accommodation challenge of NOD ratings.
“Series of works including roofing, tiling, plumbing, painting, electrical works, borehole system, as well as provision of basic, were carried out through direct labour to make the structure conducive.
“The completion of the works and its commissioning will further boost the morale and productivity of NOD ratings for greater service delivery and operational efficiency.”
The ASNOD appreciated the CNS’ commitment to executing projects that positively impact personnel welfare and productivity, adding that such initiatives would ensure the provision of best resources that would motivate personnel towards service for improved national security.
