The Nigerian Navy on Monday decorated (Shipping of stripes) 24 exceptional senior officers who have been promoted to the most enviable rank of rear admirals.
The Navy Board recently approved the promotion of 146 senior officers to various ranks in the Nigerian Navy.
Special Guest of Honour, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Gwabin Musa in his remarks said their promotion is a well-deserved recognition of their achievements and a reflection of the trust and confidence the nation has proposed on every one of them. The exalted rank of rear admirals implies not only a high level of responsibility but also a deep sense of duty towards our beloved country.
General Musa who congratulated the senior officers and their families on achieving this laudable feat, noted that today is however not only a day of celebration but also a clarion call to the task ahead, having reached the peak of your careers. Always remember that the Nigerian Navy and the Armed Forces will continue to rely on the leadership and expertise of individuals like you for maritime security and to safeguard our country as well as its people.
He urged them to continue to uphold the highest standard of professionalism and patriotism as well as foster strong collaboration with their colleagues to achieve the national security objectives.
"Do not forget your responsibility to protect democratic governance and loyalty to the constituted authority as it is non-negotiable. Always remember the numerous security challenges confronting our country as you will be in positions and offices that require critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
"Your novel ideas, solutions and innovative thinking will be vital to the success of the Armed Forces. You are now critical links between the political class and the lower echelons of the Nigerian Navy. Accordingly, you must use this link to improve the welfare of the troops under your command which is very, very critical and very vital for our success.
"Your actions must improve the Armed Forces at all times. Be careful with words and utterances and most importantly, key into the vision of the Chief of Naval Staff and that of the Armed Forces. To the families and friends of the newly promoted senior officers, I extend my deepest gratitude for your unwavering support and sacrifice.
"Your love and encouragement have been instrumental to their successes and I urge you to continue to stand by them as they take on their new responsibilities
The Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla in his remarks said the quality of leadership in the Nigerian Navy was essential for the optimal realisation of its objectives as expected in every performance-oriented organisation.
Ogalla noted that despite the huge number of annual enlistments, only the most dedicated and loyal officers would rise to the apex of the profession. This cadre of Flag Officers, according to him, will constitute the leadership of the navy and the Armed Forces of Nigeria.
SpyeTV News reports that the Navy Board on Thursday 19 December 2024 approved the promotion of 146 senior officers to various ranks in the Nigerian Navy, 24 Commodores were promoted to the rank of Rear Admiral, 26 Captains were elevated to the rank of Commodore while 96 Commanders were promoted to the rank of Captain.
The newly promoted Rear Admirals decorated today are Ibrahim Mohammed-Katsina, Suleman Dahun, Gideon Jinjirim Kachim, Abolade Olanrele Ogunleye, Seminu Adisa Adepegba, Bob-Manuel Kokoete Effiong, Yusuf Sani Idris, Danjuma Mohammed Ndanusa, Ifeanyi Chidi Okpala, Mushin Yahaya Abba, Victor Dabess Choji, Vincent Burabari Gbaranwi, Madumom Ide, Desmond Okechukwu Igbo, Kolawale Olumide Oguntuga, Adedokun John Siyanbade, Raheem Taofeek, Kabiru Tanimu, Bai Haruna Sabo, Jonathan Ojone Ajodo, Paul Efe-Oghene, Musliu Olatokunbo Yussuff, Abiodun Alade and Samuel Innocent Ngatuwa.