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By Philip Nwosu
The Nigerian Navy has charged its officers to take control of Nigeria’s territorial waters and eliminate criminal activities disrupting maritime operations.
The Flag Officer Commanding (FOC), Naval Training Command, Rear Admiral Istifanus Mu’azu Albara, gave the directive at the combined graduation ceremony of Officers Long Special Course 29/24 and Sub-Lieutenant Technical Course 32/24. Represented by the Chief Staff Officer of the Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral A. Baba-Inna, Albara urged the officers to protect Nigeria’s sea lanes from threats posed by economic saboteurs and violent non-state actors.
He emphasized the significance of maritime dominance, stating that the domain is a critical source of power and wealth. He noted that the Navy, tasked with safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime environment, is persistently challenged by threats undermining the nation’s economic and security interests.
“The dynamics of these threats have necessitated the expansion and modernization of the Navy’s fleet in recent times,” he said. Baba-Inna stressed the importance of well-trained personnel, adding that addressing these challenges requires a skilled workforce capable of handling advanced naval platforms.
The FOC highlighted the Navy’s comprehensive and systematic approach to training, which aligns with global best practices. He said the courses completed by the graduating officers build on previous training, equipping them with the skills and competencies needed to counter prevailing maritime threats effectively.
“The knowledge you have gained during this training equips you for day-to-day naval operations. Your training is world-class and designed to ensure your effective performance on our platforms,” he said.
Albara praised the Commandant of Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Quorra for achieving the certification of seaman courses by the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) in line with International Maritime Organization (IMO) standards. He noted that this milestone has positioned NNS Quorra as a certified Maritime Training Institute.
The FOC advised the officers to continue building on their knowledge and not rest on their laurels, emphasizing the importance of continuous learning.
“As you return to your ships, remain loyal to the service, uphold professionalism, and align your efforts with the Chief of Naval Staff’s Strategic Directives. Be mindful of your words and actions, as they are crucial to the success of naval operations,” he said.
He urged the officers to focus on personal development, pointing out that their dedication to growth would reflect in their future endeavors.
“The seriousness you give to personal development will show in your future. As officers, you are at the core of naval operations. Speak from a position of knowledge and act from a place of patriotism,” he concluded.
The graduation ceremony marked another milestone in the Navy’s commitment to enhancing the capacity of its personnel and securing Nigeria’s maritime environment.
Earlier, the Commandant of NNS QUORRA, Commodore Benjamin Onalo, commended the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Oglala, for his steadfast support, which he credited with enabling the institution to consistently deliver on its training mandate.
Commodore Onalo also expressed gratitude to the Flag Officer Commanding Naval Training Command (FOC NAVTRAC), Rear Admiral Istifanus Albara, for his guidance and unwavering support. According to the Commandant, this support has been instrumental in addressing the school’s operational needs and enhancing its training objectives.
“The contributions of the Chief of the Naval Staff and the FOC NAVTRAC have significantly impacted the quality of our programs, ensuring we remain on track in fulfilling our mission,” Commodore Onalo said.
He further lauded the resilience of the graduating students, acknowledging their ability to overcome challenges and achieve commendable academic performance. Addressing the graduates, he urged them to remain ambassadors of NNS QUORRA, upholding the values instilled during their training.
“Let the lessons and discipline you have acquired here guide your future endeavors and reflect the excellence of this institution,” he advised.
