The Nigerian Navy, on Tuesday, marked its 69th anniversary with a colourful sailing competition held at the Navy Sailing Club, Ojo, Lagos, reinforcing its commitment to the development of water sports in Nigeria.
The event, which ran from April 2 to April 15, brought together top naval personnel, veterans, athletes and officials of the Nigeria Sailing Federation in a display of athleticism, skill and naval camaraderie.
Speaking at the ceremony, the guest of honour, Rear Admiral K.A. Amauche (rtd), underscored the significance of the celebration, describing it as a reaffirmation of the Navy’s role in fostering unity, physical fitness and professional excellence through sports.
“As we hoist our sails today, let us be reminded of our shared mission to serve with honour, courage, and commitment,” he said, praising the improvement in infrastructure and the performance of personnel since his time in service.
Amauche, who served in the Navy for 35 years, commended the current leadership, noting significant strides despite growing challenges. He urged the Navy hierarchy to increase investment in water sports infrastructure and training to further build on the current momentum.
This year’s competition marked the first time the Navy Sailing Club independently hosted the Navy Week sailing event, an achievement highlighted by the club’s Don Commodore, Captain A.F. Adewuyi.
“This is a remarkable moment in the history of the Nigerian Navy and the Navy Sailing Club,” Adewuyi said. “The Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, provided us with the logistics and support needed to make this event a success.”
Adewuyi called on Naval Headquarters to support ongoing repairs of the club’s 38 boats, including GP-14s, Ospreys and kayaks, and to invest in standard decking facilities to replace the current wooden structure that requires constant maintenance.
Chief Staff Officer of the Naval Doctrine Command, Rear Admiral Ifeanyi Chidi Okpala, described the event as a testament to the Navy’s contribution to promoting a sailing culture in Nigeria.
“This competition is well-organised and adds value to the development of water sports in the country,” he said, noting that Navy sailors had recently represented Nigeria in international competitions, including a recent outing in India.
Okpala urged the Nigerian Sailing Federation to give more recognition and support to the Navy Sailing Club, which he described as a “hub for grooming national and international sailing talents.”
The Navy’s 69th anniversary celebrations continue this week with other events lined up to showcase naval tradition, commitment to national security, and the promotion of youth engagement through sport.
Credit: The Guardian
