The Nigerian Navy will commission three ships, three helicopters, and inaugurate several accommodation plots, and office blocks as part of its 69th anniversary celebrations.
The Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, disclosed this on Sunday, at Our Lady Star of the Sea Catholic Church, Navy Town, Lagos.
According to the News Agency of Nigeria, the church service was in commemoration of the Nigerian Navy’s 69th anniversary and its achievements over the years.
Ogalla stated that the navy remained focused on capacity building, platform acquisition, infrastructure, and the welfare of both personnel and civilians under his strategic objectives.
‘While we maintain development and infrastructure, we must remain fair, secure, and stable through professional conduct’, he said.
He added that welfare remains a priority, alongside boosting efficiency through infrastructure, platforms, and tools needed for operational effectiveness.
Ogalla stressed the importance of peace and order while upholding principles that promote national unity and harmony.
He acknowledged accommodation challenges in the Navy, adding that efforts would be made to address the issue.
Ogalla said the Navy established a special operations command in Makurdi and also formed the Nigerian Navy Marines.
‘These initiatives aim to create an agile force for expeditionary warfare, addressing maritime threats and supporting land operations’, he said.
He assured the service of continued improvement of operational strategies to tackle criminal activities, both at sea and on land.
He credited President Bola Tinubu for unwavering support, noting that all Navy-related requests had been treated with urgency and importance.
‘We’ll keep supporting land-based security operations under the President’s agenda for economic growth and national sovereignty’, Ogalla added.
In his sermon, Rev. Fr Richmond Diala urged naval personnel to stay united, protect one another, and always thank God for His protection.
‘It’s by God’s grace we’re alive today. Others, more deserving, are not where we are’, he said.
