The Western Naval Command of the Nigerian Navy on Friday hosted its end-of-year cocktail and dinner night in Lagos, bringing officers together to celebrate a successful 2025, appreciate their collective achievements, and give thanks to God for guidance throughout the year.
Held at the Western Naval Command Officers’ Mess, the ceremony featured the Admiral Superintendent of Naval Dockyard Limited, Rear Admiral Ibrahim Shehu, as Special Guest of Honour. Delivering his remarks, Rear Admiral Shehu expressed deep gratitude to God for the opportunity to mark the end of another productive year, while commending the leadership and strategic direction of the Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Idi Abbas.
He noted that the CNS’s vision and guidance were instrumental to the notable achievements recorded by the Nigerian Navy, particularly within the Lagos operational area. Rear Admiral Shehu also lauded the Flag Officer Commanding (FOC), Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral Abubakar Mustapha, for his innovative leadership and for creating an enabling atmosphere for officers to reflect, reconnect and strategize.
“I sincerely appreciate the FOC for conceptualising this event and providing such a beautiful ambience for us to gather. My gratitude equally goes to all units and establishments whose efforts contributed to the success of this memorable evening,” he said.
The Admiral further acknowledged the presence of senior officers, including commanders of autonomous units, directors and unit commanders, describing their attendance as a strong symbol of unity and shared purpose. He added that the dinner provided an opportunity for officers to reflect on collective accomplishments in 2025 and to reposition for even greater successes in the coming year.
As the event drew to a close, Rear Admiral Shehu wished officers safe journeys, a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year, urging them to remain united. “As we always say, onward together,” he concluded.
Earlier in his welcome address, the Flag Officer Commanding Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral Abubakar Mustapha, warmly received officers and guests, describing the gathering as a family moment to celebrate the end of a remarkable year and to acknowledge God’s benevolence.
He praised officers in the Lagos area for their dedication, resilience and unwavering professionalism in the face of evolving and unpredictable security challenges. According to him, their commitment and operational excellence were critical to the successes recorded in safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime domain and supporting national economic prosperity.
“Despite dynamic challenges, you have consistently stood as a symbol of excellence. Your professionalism and doggedness have been central to the achievements we recorded this year,” Rear Admiral Mustapha stated.
Looking ahead to 2026, the FOC urged officers to remain optimistic, focused and committed to duty. He encouraged sustained collaboration with sister services, other government agencies and international partners, in line with the vision of the Chief of the Naval Staff.
“The strength of our maritime defence lies not only in individual capability but in unity of purpose and the bonds forged through collaboration,” he emphasized.
Rear Admiral Mustapha also paid tribute to the spouses and families of naval officers, acknowledging their patience, sacrifice and support, which he described as vital to the professional conduct and effectiveness of personnel.
As officers celebrated the night, he expressed confidence that the Nigerian Navy would record even greater achievements in the coming year, praying for continued success and unity. “May the coming year bring greater accomplishments. Enjoy your holidays, and God bless the Nigerian Navy,” he said.