On 28 August 2025, Rear Admiral Robert Obeya, the Flag Officer Commanding (FOC) Naval Training Command (NAVTRAC), visited the Nigerian Naval Institute of Technology (NNIT) in Sapele. The visit was part of his inaugural familiarization tour of the various professional schools, colleges, and units under his command.
The FOC was warmly welcomed by Rear Admiral SJ Oyegade, Commandant of NNIT, along with the Deputy Commandant, Heads of Departments, the Commander of the Naval Medical Centre Sapele, and the Commanding Officers of various schools within the institute. The visit included a comprehensive briefing on the institution’s activities, followed by a guided tour of its facilities.
In his address, Admiral Obeya praised the Commandant and the management for maintaining the professional standards of the institute. He acknowledged that while many of the institute’s equipment are aging, they remain well-maintained and operational. Admiral Obeya emphasized that his primary goal is to ensure that professional schools within the Nigerian Navy embrace more technologically advanced training methodologies.
He stressed the need for upgrades to training aids and equipment, ensuring they align with global best practices. This aligns with the Nigerian Navy’s training policy, which prioritizes the professional development of its personnel to ensure optimal performance of constitutional duties. This policy focuses on continuous learning, specialized skill development, and adherence to international standards.
The FOC also highlighted the importance of certain areas for future focus, including improving swimming proficiency among personnel and offering additional training in ICT and public speaking. He noted that enhancing these skills would foster better communication, boost self-confidence, and develop leadership capabilities within the Navy.
In response, Rear Admiral Oyegade expressed his gratitude to the FOC for the visit, which provided valuable insights into the current state of the institution’s facilities. He assured the FOC that despite the challenges faced by NNIT, the institute remains dedicated to fulfilling its mandate in alignment with the mission and vision set by the Chief of Naval Staff.
During the tour, Admiral Obeya visited several schools within the institute, including the Nuclear, Biological, and Chemical Defence Warfare and Damage Control, including Fire Fighting (NBCF) School, where he addressed Senior Training Course (STC) officers.
He encouraged them to remain committed to their studies for personal growth and career advancement. Other schools visited included the Marine Engineering School, Weapon Engineering School, Basic Engineering School, the Nigerian Navy Garment Factory, and the NN Driving School.