The humanitarian side of the Nigerian Navy came to the fore on Monday as Naval Dockyard Limited visited Living Fountain Orphanage in Lagos, extending support to vulnerable children as part of activities marking the Navy’s 70th anniversary celebration.
The outreach underscored the Navy’s growing commitment to social responsibility beyond maritime security and national defence, with senior naval officers reaffirming support for child welfare and community development.
The delegation represented the Admiral Superintendent of Naval Dockyard Limited, Rear Admiral I.E. Shehu, and was led by Commodore O.D. Ogbologu alongside other officers of the Nigerian Navy.
During the visit, Commodore Ogbologu said the Naval Dockyard considered it important to identify with orphanage homes and vulnerable children as the Navy celebrates seven decades of national service.
He stated that the Navy remained deeply concerned about the wellbeing and future of children living in orphanages across the country.
According to him, the service is also willing to inspire and support children who may aspire to build careers within the Nigerian Navy in the future.
He explained that the visit formed part of efforts by the Navy to give back to society and strengthen its relationship with communities through humanitarian engagements.
Founder of Living Fountain Orphanage, Lady Bethy Obieri, expressed gratitude to the Nigerian Navy for what she described as a compassionate and thoughtful gesture during the platinum anniversary celebration.
She said the orphanage had continued to survive and grow through the support of individuals and organisations committed to helping vulnerable children.
Lady Bethy disclosed that several children raised in the home were currently excelling in their academics and careers both within Nigeria and overseas.
“The home is doing well with the help of kindhearted Nigerians like the Navy,” she said while commending the officers for demonstrating genuine love and concern for the children.
Officials of the orphanage later conducted the visiting officers round the facility, showcasing the daily welfare activities and operational structure of the home.
An emotional moment emerged during the visit when the oldest orphan in the facility, an 18 year old girl, appreciated the Navy for the donated food items and support at a time many families are facing economic hardship.
The management of the orphanage revealed that the teenager recently scored 274 in the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board examination and hopes to study Law at the University of Lagos.
In his closing remarks, Commodore Ogbologu assured the orphanage management that Naval Dockyard Limited would sustain its support for the children, stressing that the Nigerian Navy’s 70th anniversary celebration also reflects a strong commitment to compassion, humanity and national development.