From Molly Kilete, Abuja
The Nigerian Navy has presented the Chief of Naval Staff Commendation Awards to 58 officers and ratings who performed excellently in research and innovation, SDB III Design and Construction, exemplary character and gallantry.
The Navy at its 2003 Ceremonial Sunset and Awards Night 2023, held at the naval unit in Abuja, also conferred its Command and Sea Badge on officers who successfully held sea commands during the year.
In his address at the occasion, the Chief of Naval Staff(CNS), Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, described the ceremony as an age-long tradition to celebrate the resilience and commitment of its personnel and urged them not to relent in carrying out their constitutional responsibilities.
While charging officers and ratings to remain dogged in fighting maritime crimes and securing the nations waterways, the CNS said one of the primary objectives had been to ensure that the naval fleet would be equipped and prepared to meet the demands of the evolving maritime security landscape.
He said “Tonight, as we have witnessed the sunset of another year. Let us take a moment to reflect on the achievements and milestones we have collectively reached.
“This year has been a period of significant progress and accomplishment for the Nigerian Navy.
“When I assumed office as the Chief of the Naval Staff, I laid out clear vision and mission statements as well as my command’s philosophy.
“Central to these is the need to maintain a Navy that is professional, capable and responsive to the demands of our maritime environment,”.
Continuing, Admiral Oglala, said “This year, we have made significant progress in fleet renewal efforts, with the acquisition of new vessels and the ongoing modernisation of existing platforms.
“We have also continued to invest in maritime domain awareness,”.