As part of activities marking the 69th Anniversary of the Nigerian Navy, a special sea voyage was conducted from the NNS BEECROFT Jetty at the Naval Base in Apapa, Lagos. At exactly 09:00 hours on Friday, May 30, 2025, Naval ship Kada cast off with select civilians onboard, embarking on a strategic journey through Nigeria’s territorial waters to the coastline.
The initiative was designed to foster deeper Navy-civilian relations and offer a rare, first hand glimpse into the daily operational duties of the Nigerian Navy. It also served as a gesture of appreciation to citizens whose tax contributions support the civic responsibilities and operational readiness of the Navy.
Throughout the voyage, guests onboard witnessed the strategic deployment of naval assets and the meticulous coordination involved in maritime security operations. The event underscored the Navy’s critical role in safeguarding Nigeria’s economic lifelines and territorial integrity, particularly in the increasingly contested Gulf of Guinea.
The Fleet Commander, Rear Admiral Ibrahim Mohammed-Katsina, emphasized the significance of the exercise beyond ceremonial observance. It was a deliberate effort to demonstrate how the Navy maintains robust surveillance and defense across maritime domains while reinforcing public trust and transparency in its operations.
Rear Admiral Mohammed-Katsina reaffirmed the Navy’s commitment to national security, asserting that protecting the lives and economic interests of Nigerians remains a top priority. He credited the forward looking vision of the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Ikechukwu Ogalla (Admiralty Medal), for driving the twin mandates of enhanced maritime security and strengthened civil-military engagement.
The voyage concluded with expressions of gratitude to the civilian participants, who were encouraged to continue their support and actively participate in the ongoing anniversary celebrations. The sea trip not only highlighted the operational capabilities of the Nigerian Navy but also reinforced the enduring bond between the armed forces and the Nigerian people.
