The Nigerian Navy on Tuesday celebrated a significant career milestone for seven of its officers with a formal decoration ceremony at the Naval Headquarters, Abuja, marking their elevation to the rank of Lieutenant Commander.
The ceremony, traditionally referred to in naval parlance as the “shipping of stripes,” was a moment of pride and reflection for the newly promoted officers, their families, and the Navy leadership.
Presiding over the event on behalf of the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, the Chief of Policy and Plans, Rear Admiral Ibrahim Abdullahi Dewu, commended the officers for their dedication, professionalism, and loyalty to the service and the nation.
“Today’s ceremony is a celebration of hard work, integrity, professionalism, and perseverance,” Rear Admiral Dewu declared. “Your promotion is not just recognition of past achievements but also a call to greater responsibility as Lieutenant Commanders in the Nigerian Navy. You must put in your best in the Nigerian Navy’s effort in fighting insecurity and maritime crime in the country.”
He further acknowledged the critical role of family support in the officers’ career growth, adding: “The support of your spouses and families cannot be overemphasized. They labour behind the scenes, keeping the home front stable, so that you can concentrate on your duties. This promotion is as much theirs as it is yours.”
The officers honoured at the event included:
”Lieutenant Sadiq Alhassan
”Lieutenant Augusta Aku
”Lieutenant James Enejoh
”Lieutenant Clement Eyeh
”Lieutenant James Fatika
”Lieutenant Titilayo George
”Lieutenant Deborah Nwaorji.”
They were decorated in the presence of their proud families, senior naval officers, directors, branch chiefs, and other well-wishers who gathered to witness the symbolic pinning of the new ranks.
The occasion ended with a ceremonial photo session and a modest reception held in honour of the newly promoted officers.