Navy Repositions Strategies to Tackle Contemporary Security Challenges

By Chiemelie Ezeobi 

The Flag Officer Commanding (FOC), Naval Training Command (NAVTRAC), Rear Admiral Azubuike Ajuonu, has reiterated the Nigerian Navy's (NN) commitment to repositioning its strategies to tackle contemporary security challenges. 

The FOC made this disclosure at NAVTRAC base in Apapa, Lagos, during the recent parade held to mark the end of the command's first bi-annual inspection for the year.

He said, "As part of the Nigerian Navy (NN) forecast of events 2013, my first bi-annual inspection commenced a month ago and the essence was to enable me assess the state of training facilities and infrastructure including welfare issues of units under the command.

"My visit to units provided me with the opportunity to not only identify areas of improvement but to unfold the bouquet of strategies outlined for execution in order to reposition training.

"This is in line with the vision of the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Dele Ezeoba's as encapsulated in his strategic guidance 01."

He added, "During the NN retreat in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State,  the command proposed strategies aimed at repositioning local training way from the general nature as it is practiced currently to a more robust and focused training.

"The training would be anchored on operational, type and on the job training in line with the emerging challenges in our maritime environment. Consequently, the NN training policy and doctrine for local training will be reviewed and course curriculum enhanced accordingly."

Ajuonu said besides the ongoing innovations in the academic and operational training of the 

command, it has also embarked on infrastructural renewal and renovation of offices and students/trainees accommodation.

While noting that the CNS has increased the allowance for both instructors and admin, he added that it is imperative that the gesture be reciprocated by showing rededication and commitment to work.

He however said that despite the proposed strategies, the command is not without challenges, adding that the units have still gone on to do well not minding the inherent challenges. 

Addressing his officers and men, Ajuonu said, "It is necessary to remind us that in this era of democracy, subordinating ourselves to constituted authorities in your respective areas of responsibility is not negotiable.

"You are therefore charged to relate cordially with the civil populace bearing in mind our constitutional role. We must therefore strive to steer the course of honors selfless service, dedication to our duties and judicious use of resources and above all remain loyal to our great nation."