The Nigerian Navy has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening maritime security and personnel welfare with the commissioning of critical infrastructure at the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Lugard Base in Lokoja.
Speaking at the event held on Friday at the NNS Lugard Base in Banda, Lokoja, the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, said the commissioning formed part of activities marking the Navy’s 70th anniversary and reflected ongoing efforts to modernize the service.
Represented by the Flag Officer Commanding Central Naval Command, Rear Admiral Suleiman Ibrahim, the naval chief noted that for seven decades, the Nigerian Navy has remained steadfast in defending the nation’s maritime interests and territorial integrity, demonstrating professionalism and operational excellence.
He described NNS Lugard as a strategic formation critical to securing Nigeria’s inland waterways, particularly along the Rivers Niger and Benue.
According to him, the base plays a vital role in enhancing national security and economic stability through effective maritime operations and inter-agency collaboration.
Projects commissioned at the base include a remodeled Quarter Guard and Sentry Post, a Marine Bar, a Base Photo Stand, and a newly constructed helipad.
Vice Admiral Abbas explained that the upgraded Quarter Guard and Sentry Post symbolize discipline, professionalism, and combat readiness, while the Marine Bar is designed to boost morale, welfare, and camaraderie among personnel.
In his welcome address, the Commander of NNS Lugard, Commodore Adesola Ojo, described the occasion as a significant milestone in efforts to enhance operational efficiency and personnel welfare at the base.
He said the projects were conceived following his assumption of duty as the 13th Commander, with a clear focus on improving infrastructure and boosting personnel morale.
Commodore Ojo added that the facilities would improve regimentation and ceremonial duties within the base, while also providing additional benefits for visitors and supporting civil-military operations.
Highlighting the importance of the helipad, he noted that it would facilitate the integration of naval helicopters into operations, including surveillance, VIP movement, and rapid response missions.
“The helipad will provide a safer, faster, and more convenient means of access to the base, especially for senior officers such as the Flag Officer Commanding during official visits,” he said.
The commander commended stakeholders and guests for their continued support, noting that their presence underscored the strong partnership required for the growth and effectiveness of the Navy.
He reaffirmed the Nigerian Navy’s resolve to safeguard the nation’s maritime domain and protect national interests as it marks 70 years of service, while also calling for sustained collaboration from partners and the public.
Kogi State Governor, Usman Ododo, represented by the Special Adviser on Security Matters, Commodore Jerry Omadara (rtd), reiterated the state government’s support for the Navy in discharging its statutory responsibilities.
The governor commended the Nigerian Navy for its 70 years of proactive operations and praised NNS Lugard for its commitment to maintaining security in Kogi State.
Presenting the overview of the projects, the Base Project Officer, Sub-Lieutenant D.F. Itor-Ue, said the projects which comprises of a Marine Bar, a remodelled Quarter Guard with Command Photo Stand, and a Helipad were conceived and executed under the leadership of the Commander NNS Lugard, Commodore Adesola Olutayo Ojo.
He noted that the facilities were designed to address critical gaps in security, troop welfare and operational capability within the base, adding that they would significantly improve the overall wellbeing of personnel.
According to him, the Marine Bar reflects the unique identity of Lokoja as the historic Confluence Town, symbolising unity and discipline among officers and ratings.
The structure features two relaxation halls, a modern kitchen, service area, office, store, six conveniences and an overhead water system, all supported by a dedicated power supply and standby generator.
“The Quarter Guard as the first line of defence and ceremonial face of the base, was remodelled to enhance aesthetics, boost alertness and reinforce professionalism among personnel.
“The adjoining Command Photo Stand would serve as a symbolic and ceremonial landmark” he stated.
Itor-Ue further explained that the newly constructed helipad was built to standard specifications to support rapid response and operational effectiveness when required.
He expressed optimism that the projects would not only improve living and working conditions for personnel but also strengthen the Navy’s capacity to carry out its mandate effectively.
