CNS inaugurates projects, pledges commitment to personnel welfare

By Sumaila Ogbaje

Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Adm. Awwal Gambo, on Friday pledged commitment to the welfare of personnel to enhance their morale and well-being.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the CNS made the commitment in Abuja when he inaugurated accommodation for officers and ratings, administrative building, Parade Ground and Special Forces Holding Bay.

The newly renovated and remodelled naval ratings accommodation is located at the National Defence College Camp Ushafa while the officers quarters is located at Gudu District of Abuja.

The Special Forces Holding Bay located at Navy Town Abuja, was named after the pioneer Commander of the Nigerian Navy Special Boat Service (SBS), retired Rear Adm. Apochi Suleiman.

Gambo said the inauguration of the projects was a milestone in the history of the Nigerian navy, and crucial to enhancing performance and operational capabilities of the navy.

He said it showcased the commitment of the navy to the welfare of personnel.

Gambo said that barracks were not just buildings but homes and sanctuaries where officers and ratings find solace and support from their families.

“By investing in the development of NN barracks and other infrastructure, we create an environment that enhances their morale, team spirit and a sense of belonging.

“Our personnel deserve nothing short of the best, and these new infrastructure demonstrate our commitment to their comfort and well-being.

“It is also in this vein that we prioritised the development of modern living spaces for rest and recreation of our special forces personnel.”

Gambo added that the SF holding bay was an  acknowledgement of the vital role they play in naval and joint military operations.

According to him, a well-maintained parade ground is not only a space of military tradition but also a symbol of discipline, precision, and unity.

“It is on this hallowed ground that our naval personnel are mustered to demonstrate their skills, rehearse their drills, and express their readiness to protect our nation’s interests.

“The commissioning of a new parade ground emphasises our dedication to upholding the highest standards of military professionalism and ensuring that navy personnel have the necessary infrastructure to train and perform at their best,” he said.

Gambo said the new administrative building of the Naval Unit would enhance operational effectiveness, providing personnel with the necessary resources and facilities required for efficient administrative responsibilities.

The CNS added that the completion of the projects reflected the collective efforts of the naval personnel, engineers, and professionals, and commended their efforts.

He charged officers and ratings to rededicate themselves to the defence and security of Nigeria and continue to work together to protect the nation’s interests and uphold the honour and integrity of the navy.

The Commander of the Naval Unit, Commodore Abdulrahman Mohammed, said the projects were in furtherance of the navy’s efforts towards providing adequate accommodation, office spaces and training facilities for its personnel.

Muhammed thanked the naval chief for conceiving and executing the projects, adding that the projects would enhance capability, efficiency and proficiency of officers and ratings of the Naval Unit.

According to him, it will also boost their morale and commitment to efficient service delivery.

 

(NAN)