The Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) BEECROFT held a prestigious Wining-In and Wining-Out ceremony on October 3, 2025, at the Officers’ Mess, in celebration of newly appointed officers, outgoing personnel, and newly inducted honorary members. The event, steeped in naval tradition, served as both a formal welcome and a heartfelt farewell, while reinforcing the enduring values of camaraderie, discipline, and service.
In his opening remarks, the President of the Mess Committee (PMC), Navy Captain Idongesit Udoessien, welcomed guests and participants to the Officers’ Mess, describing the occasion as “a unique convergence of tradition and fellowship.”
“This evening, we gather to honour three of our newly appointed officers through the wining-in ceremony, bid farewell to three outgoing colleagues through the wining-out ceremony, and formally induct four distinguished personalities as honorary members of our Mess,” Captain Udoessien stated.
He emphasized the symbolic significance of the Officers’ Mess, describing it not only as a place for relaxation and dining but also as the heart of naval tradition, where values such as discipline, camaraderie, and esprit de corps are nurtured.
“To our new officers, we say a warm welcome. We trust that you will bring fresh perspectives and renewed zeal to your service at NNS BEECROFT. And to our outgoing colleagues, we celebrate your impactful contributions and bid you farewell as you embark on your next assignments,” he added.
Representing the newly welcomed officers, Lieutenant Commander C.O. Ogar expressed deep appreciation to the Mess Committee and senior officers for their mentorship and support during their service.
“In the past 18 months, we have served with dedication. We thank the PMC for creating an enabling environment and the entire Mess for standing by us. As we move on to new roles, we carry with us the lessons and values of our time here,” Lt Cdr Ogar remarked.
The ceremony also featured the induction of four distinguished individuals as Honorary Members of the Officers’ Mess. Addressing them, Rear Admiral Ibrahim Mohammed-Katsina, the Fleet Commander of the Western Naval Command, welcomed the honourees into what he described as a close-knit and honourable community.
“As honorary members, you are now part of this Mess. We expect you to uphold the high standards that earned you this recognition. Represent the Navy with dignity, decorum, and pride,” Rear Admiral Mohammed-Katsina stated.
He underscored the Navy’s proud tradition as a diplomatic and highly regarded service, noting that officers represent not only themselves but the integrity of the Nigerian Navy wherever they go.
“We wear white not just as a uniform, but as a symbol of honour and visibility. The world sees us, and we must always present ourselves as professionals of the highest character,” he concluded.
Speaking further, the Commander of NNS BEECROFT, Commodore Paul Ponfa Nimmyel, expressed pride in the base’s tradition of excellence, highlighting past events such as fisheries regulation training and promotion ceremonies held at the Mess.
“It is with immense pride that I acknowledge the dedication and sacrifices of our officers and newly inducted honorary members. Your service reflects the finest traditions of naval discipline, courage, and professionalism,” Commodore Nimmyel said.
He noted that the legacy of those being welcomed and those departing would endure in the life of the Mess and in the broader mission of the Nigerian Navy.
“We honour not just individual achievement, but the collective spirit that binds us as a naval family. May each of you continue to serve with distinction as we uphold the values that define our great institution,” he added.
The event was well attended by senior officers, civilian dignitaries, and invited guests. It concluded with a formal dinner and social evening marked by camaraderie, reflection, and celebration.