By Ike Uchechukwu, CALABAR
The Nigerian Navy has pledged to become more adaptable, resilient, and technology-driven in fulfilling its constitutional mandate of safeguarding the nation’s maritime assets and infrastructure.
Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, made the commitment during an interdenominational thanksgiving service to mark the 70th anniversary of the Nigerian Navy at the Navy Protestant Church in Calabar on Sunday.
Represented by Rear Admiral Chidozie Okehie, Flag Officer Commanding, Eastern Naval Command, Vice Admiral Abbas highlighted the Navy’s evolution and future direction.
“Since our establishment in 1956, Nigerian Navy has grown from a veteran guard as you call those days to a fully fledged navy that is able to carry out major combat operations and security operations,” he said.
“We are the sentinel of Nigeria’s maritime assets and infrastructure value that over billions of dollars and remain ready and committed to continue to protect these assets for the economic prosperity of the country.”
Abbas stated that the Navy would align its operations with modern trends, particularly in surveillance and platforms.
He also urged officers and ratings to prioritise the welfare of their families, noting that the Navy places high premium on personnel welfare because of the critical role families play in their lives.
In his homily titled “Unity of Purpose” Cdr. Raphael Adelena, the officiating minister, charged officers and men of the Navy to remain united in the pursuit of national peace and security.
Reading from the book of Ephesians 4: 1-6, Adelena emphasised that every personnel has a role to play, no matter how small.
While commending the Navy for its professionalism, integrity, and core values, he likened its journey to that of the Israelites and the Egyptians.
He, however, admonished them to always incorporate the spiritual dimension in the fight against insecurity.
“Each and every one of you has a role to play in pursuit of national peace. No role is too small to be neglected,” Adelena said.
“We must remain united to celebrate more. Celebration is a Clarion call for all to work together in unity of purpose.
“The question, however, is are we all playing our role as it ought to be?
“We have got to remain united in purpose. That is the only way our ship will sail.”
The service formed part of activities lined up for the Nigerian Navy’s 70th anniversary celebration.
Article Navy vows tech-driven, resilient defence of maritime assets, infrastructure Live On NgGossips.
