In a move to strengthen operational efficiency and enhance the quality of naval training, the Flag Officer Commanding (FOC) Naval Training Command (NAVTRAC), Rear Admiral RO Obeya, has embarked on a familiarisation tour of key training and support facilities under his command.
The tour, which began on Thursday, July 3, 2025, marks Rear Admiral Obeya’s first official visit to the units since assuming office. It is aimed at assessing ongoing operations, interacting with personnel, and identifying areas in need of intervention to support the Nigerian Navy’s broader objectives.
The units visited on the first day of the tour included:
- Nigerian Naval College, Ebubu, Eleme
- Nigerian Navy Basic Training School (NNBTS), Onne
- Naval Medical Centre, Onne
- Nigerian Navy Hydrographic School, Borokiri
Speaking during the visit, Rear Admiral Obeya emphasized that the tour was not ceremonial but a deliberate effort to gain firsthand insights into the conditions of the training facilities and the welfare of personnel. He reiterated his commitment to raising the standard of training within the Navy and ensuring that training institutions are well-equipped to meet current and emerging maritime security challenges.
“Our training institutions are the foundation of naval excellence. Ensuring that they function effectively is key to building a competent and professional force. This tour allows me to see what is working, what needs attention, and where we can offer immediate and long-term support,” he said.
At the Nigerian Naval College, the FOC inspected classrooms, accommodation facilities, and training equipment. He also interacted with cadets and encouraged them to remain disciplined, focused, and committed to the core values of the Nigerian Navy.
During his visit to the Nigerian Navy Basic Training School, Rear Admiral Obeya was briefed on the curriculum and ongoing recruitment training exercises. He commended the instructors for their dedication and stressed the need for continued mentorship and leadership development.
The tour extended to the Naval Medical Centre in Onne, where the FOC assessed healthcare services available to trainees and personnel. He acknowledged the crucial role of medical readiness in sustaining operational capability and assured staff of continued improvements in medical infrastructure and service delivery.
At the Nigerian Navy Hydrographic School, Borokiri, he highlighted the strategic importance of hydrography in navigation, maritime safety, and operational planning. He encouraged trainees to embrace the technical knowledge being offered and apply it effectively in real-world naval operations.
Rear Admiral Obeya concluded the first leg of his familiarisation tour by commending the professionalism and dedication of officers across the visited units. He also gave assurances that recommendations for necessary upgrades and interventions would be acted upon to further enhance the standard of training across the Command.
The familiarisation tour is expected to continue across other NAVTRAC units in the coming weeks, as part of Rear Admiral Obeya’s broader vision to promote excellence, operational readiness, and continuous improvement within Nigeria’s naval training infrastructure.
