The Western Naval Command (WNC) of the Nigerian Navy has successfully concluded its 2025 Small Arms Firing Exercise and Range Classification (SAFEX 2025), held from April 15–16 at the 192 Battalion Nigerian Army Shooting Range, Owode. The event, which drew participation from officers, ratings, and support teams across Lagos Area units, ended on a high note with a closing ceremony presided over by the Flag Officer Commanding (FOC), Rear Admiral Michael Oamen.

In his closing address, Rear Admiral Oamen lauded the professionalism, discipline, and team spirit displayed throughout the exercise. He described the event as more than a test of marksmanship—it was a reaffirmation of the bond and operational readiness that defines the Western Naval Command.

“Today has been a most fulfilling day as we stand here, dust settling on the range and the echoes of rifle fire fading,” he began. “The SAFEX 2025 was not just about hitting targets, but about strengthening the grit and brotherhood that make us a formidable fighting force. To every officer, rating, support team, and even members of the press who treated safety as sacred and teamwork as non-negotiable—I say Bravo Zulu.”

Rear Admiral Oamen emphasized the importance of continuous readiness, quoting the old naval adage, “The sea doesn’t care about your rank—it cares about your readiness.” He urged participants to carry the discipline and camaraderie of the range into every mission and deployment.

He further noted that the SAFEX aligns with the strategic guidance of the Chief of Naval Staff, which mandates that all units maintain peak operational readiness, especially in light of Nigeria’s dynamic security challenges.

The exercise featured various weapon classifications including the rifle, pistol, and General Purpose Machine Gun (GPMG), with an emphasis on live firing, safety protocols, and performance evaluations. Range coaches from the 192 Battalion were applauded for their professionalism in managing the event.

Commander Ndifreke Etuk, Acting Chairman of the Organising Committee, in his goodwill message, commended the FOC for his steadfast support in ensuring the event was held despite resource constraints. He described the exercise as mentally rewarding and essential for honing weapon handling and marksmanship skills.

“This is a testament to the FOC’s resolve to champion a command that is operationally available,” Commander Etuk stated. “The last two days tested our mental alertness, weapon handling skills, and marksmanship proficiency, all of which are critical for our ongoing security operations across the country.”

Commander Etuk added that the WNC intends to institutionalize the SAFEX as a quarterly exercise, allowing more personnel to build confidence in weapon handling—crucial in real-life security engagements.

With the successful conclusion of SAFEX 2025, the Western Naval Command has reaffirmed its readiness to confront emerging threats and contribute effectively to national security. The event ended with a renewed sense of pride, discipline, and commitment to duty.