The Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, has urged officers and ratings of the Nigerian Navy to maintain a culture of physical and mental exercise in order to remain resilient, alert, and combat ready at all times.
Speaking during the third quarter route march of the Navy, held at the weekend in Abuja and across other naval formations nationwide, Ogalla stressed that the preparedness of personnel is critical to safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime environment, protecting strategic assets, and contributing to the overall safety and security of the nation.
The Naval Chief, who was represented at the Abuja event by the Chief of Operations, Rear Admiral Patrick Nwatu, explained that beyond enhancing fitness, the quarterly exercise is a symbolic demonstration of the Navy’s commitment to discipline, professionalism, and teamwork.
“The importance of physical fitness, mental alertness, discipline, and teamwork cannot be overemphasised. These qualities are central to the Navy’s operational effectiveness and professional responsibilities. As a maritime force, we must consistently sharpen our endurance and mental strength to meet the challenges of protecting our national waters,” Ogalla said.
Fitness as Foundation of Operational Readiness
The route march, which took place at the Naval Base, Abuja, brought together officers and ratings from various units in the Federal Capital Territory. It was designed not only to boost fitness levels but also to foster esprit de corps, encourage bonding across ranks, and instill resilience in personnel.
Militarynewsng.com learnt that similar exercises were conducted simultaneously across all major naval commands, reflecting a coordinated approach to fitness and readiness within the service.
In Lagos, the Western Naval Command held its march under the leadership of the Flag Officer Commanding (FOC), Rear Admiral Mike Oamen. Represented by the Command Operations Officer, Commodore A. Muhammad, Oamen highlighted the crucial link between regular exercise and operational effectiveness.
“Routine fitness activities are not just ceremonial. They are vital to keeping our personnel proactive, responsive, and prepared for the Navy’s constitutional duties, particularly in safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime domain against emerging security threats,” he said.
Nationwide Demonstration of Commitment
The Navy explained that the quarterly route march is part of its broader strategy to sustain operational readiness across formations, especially at a time when the nation faces diverse maritime challenges. From crude oil theft, piracy, and illegal bunkering to smuggling and trafficking, the service maintains that only a fit and disciplined force can adequately secure the maritime environment.
In addition to strengthening physical fitness, the exercise is seen as a morale booster. It provides an avenue for personnel to interact outside the confines of routine operations, fostering camaraderie and mutual trust. According to naval authorities, this sense of unity is indispensable in high-risk environments where teamwork often determines mission success.
Protecting Nigeria’s Maritime Assets
Analysts note that the Nigerian Navy plays a critical role in protecting the country’s economic lifeline. With over 853 kilometres of coastline and vast offshore oil installations, Nigeria’s prosperity depends heavily on maritime security. Criminal networks targeting the Gulf of Guinea have in recent years posed significant threats, making the Navy’s vigilance crucial.
Vice Admiral Ogalla, since assuming office, has consistently emphasised professionalism, capacity development, and welfare as pillars of his leadership agenda. Regular fitness exercises, he believes, directly contribute to these priorities by enhancing the health, stamina, and responsiveness of personnel.
Reinforcing National Security Mandate
The weekend’s exercise also reinforced the Navy’s role in the joint security architecture of the country. As part of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, the Navy collaborates with the Army, Air Force, and other security agencies in addressing national security challenges both on land and at sea.
Security experts argue that in an era of asymmetric threats, where adversaries rely on speed, surprise, and unconventional tactics, physical and mental agility become as important as weapons and platforms. For this reason, fitness and resilience remain enduring values within the military.
The third quarter route march, held in Abuja, Lagos, and other naval formations, signals the Navy’s determination to maintain momentum in readiness efforts. According to naval sources, the final quarter exercise for the year will be more elaborate, incorporating additional training components that simulate operational environments.
For many personnel who participated in the march, the activity was more than a physical drill. It was a reminder of the sacrifices required in service to the nation and the personal discipline expected of every officer and rating.
As Vice Admiral Ogalla noted, the Navy cannot afford complacency in a dynamic maritime security environment. Constant training, fitness, and mental resilience, he said, remain the backbone of the service’s ability to defend Nigeria’s sovereignty and secure its maritime assets.
With such regular demonstrations of preparedness, the Nigerian Navy is sending a clear message of commitment to professionalism, national security, and the welfare of its personnel.
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