As part of activities commemorating the 69th Anniversary of the Nigerian Navy, over 500 individuals, including 421 civilians and 84 crew members, participated in a special sea trip aboard the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) KADA, aimed at fostering civil-military relations and deepening public understanding of naval operations.

During the sea trip, Fleet Commander of the Western Fleet, Rear Admiral Mustapha Hassan Ibrahim-Katsina, emphasized the significance of the event, describing it as a strategic move to enhance transparency and build public trust. He reiterated the Navy’s commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s territorial waters and maritime assets, including the resource-rich Gulf of Guinea.

“The purpose of boarding civilians today is to celebrate with the public and showcase what the Navy does in securing our maritime domain,” Rear Admiral Ibrahim-Katsina stated. “This also supports the Chief of the Naval Staff’s strategic guidance on improving civil-military cooperation. Civilians are taxpayers, and it is important they see how their taxes are used to safeguard national interests.”

Captain Andrew Zidon, Commanding Officer of NNS KADA, echoed similar sentiments, noting that the trip offered an opportunity for guests to experience the sea and gain insights into the Navy’s role in promoting maritime security and contributing to the blue economy. He disclosed that NNS KADA has the capacity to carry up to 1,000 troops.

In a related development, the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, was the Special Guest of Honour at a commemorative Golf Tournament held at the Dolphin Golf Club in Lagos. The tournament was part of the Navy’s week-long anniversary celebration.

Speaking at the event, Vice Admiral Ogalla highlighted the importance of sportsmanship, camaraderie, and wellness in fostering leadership and operational efficiency within the Navy.

“Golf mirrors the values that define a good naval officer—patience, precision, composure, and integrity,” he said. “Sporting events like this help us relax, connect, and strengthen the bonds that unite us as one force and one family.”

He commended the organizers and encouraged all participants to play in the spirit of grace and integrity.

Meanwhile, another key highlight of the anniversary celebration was the commissioning of the newly renovated Rating’s Transit Accommodation at the Naval Ordnance Depot (NOD) in Lagos. The facility, originally built in the 1980s, was remodeled into an 11-room apartment to address the accommodation challenges faced by junior personnel.

Rear Admiral Livingston Izu, Admiral Superintendent of the NOD, expressed gratitude to the Chief of the Naval Staff for his unwavering commitment to personnel welfare.

“This renovation project reflects the Navy’s determination to boost morale and enhance service delivery,” Rear Admiral Izu noted. “Beneficiaries must cherish and maintain the facility, ensuring it serves its purpose.”

The week-long celebration, which began last Friday, will conclude on Sunday with a series of ceremonial and community engagement activities, all reinforcing the Navy’s 69-year legacy of professionalism, dedication, and service to the nation.