The Nigerian Navy’s NNS WEY Base celebrated a significant milestone with the official commissioning of the remodeled Vice Admiral El Ogalla Multi-Purpose Hall. The event, which drew notable figures from the Navy and local government, marks the culmination of months of dedicated work led by Commodore Mutairu Braimah, Commander of NNS WEY.
Rear Admiral MB Hassan, the Flag Officer Commanding Western Naval Command, officiated the ceremony as the Special Guest of Honour. In his address, Rear Admiral Hassan praised the initiative, highlighting the hall’s potential to enhance the social and cultural life of the Navy Town community. “This hall represents more than just a physical structure; it symbolizes followership, commitment, and progress,” he stated. He also commended the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral El Ogalla, for his leadership and support in realizing the project.
Recalling his initial visit to the base in March, Rear Admiral Hassan shared how the hall’s transformation was conceived and emphasized the importance of maintaining a robust social base to boost personal efficiency among personnel. He expressed his satisfaction with the completed structure, which he believes will serve as a hub for various learning and social activities.
Commander JO Ukpogu, the NNS WEY Base Chaplain, echoed these sentiments, noting the hall’s significance as a symbol of the base’s strength, resilience, and unity. He urged officers and men to make maximum use of the facility, which now provides a dedicated space for events that were previously held at the parade ground.
The Executive Chairman of Oriade LCDA, Honorable Mrs. Ramotalai Olarinwaju Akinola Hassan, also addressed the gathering, emphasizing the collaborative relationship between the local government and the security agencies in the area. She highlighted the ongoing infrastructure developments in the local government, noting that these efforts are part of her commitment to improving the lives of the residents.
Commodore Braimah, in his remarks, expressed his gratitude to the Chief of Naval Staff for inspiring the project and stressed the importance of a good maintenance culture to ensure the hall’s longevity. He revealed that the hall, with a capacity of 200, was completed in just five months, a testament to the dedication of his team.
Looking ahead, Commodore Braimah announced plans for future projects at NNS WEY, including the launch of the maiden edition of the “Sailors Homefront” magazine and the construction of a mini children’s park within the barracks. He expressed hope that these initiatives would continue to enhance the living conditions and morale of the personnel at the base.
The commissioning ceremony was a resounding success, with attendees lauding the project as a significant achievement for NNS WEY and the Nigerian Navy as a whole. The remodeled hall is expected to become a cornerstone of the base’s activities, fostering a stronger sense of community and providing a venue for both formal and social gatherings.