On Saturday, the Nigerian Navy officially inducted these newly trained ratings to enhance joint military operations throughout the nation.
The passing-out ceremony for Batch 37 was held at the Nigerian Navy Basic Training School (NNBTS) in Onne, Rivers State, and was led by the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas.
Vice Admiral Abbas mentioned that the newly inducted ratings will be assigned to warships and operational units to bolster maritime security, combat oil theft, and support ground forces in counter-insurgency and other security missions.
He highlighted the importance of this recruitment, especially considering the various security issues Nigeria is currently facing, such as terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, violent extremism, and maritime crimes.
“The NNBTS has consistently met its goal of transforming civilians into skilled and capable naval personnel.
“The induction of 1,962 ratings is timely, as our nation needs improved security measures to protect lives, secure our maritime domain, and foster economic growth,” Abbas stated.
The Chief of Naval Staff pointed out that the new recruits underwent six months of rigorous training as part of the Navy’s enhanced capacity-building program.
The training curriculum included combat swimming, field-craft, visit-board-search-and-seizure drills, live-firing exercises, and practical operational simulations.
Abbas encouraged the ratings to exhibit discipline, integrity, professionalism, and teamwork, emphasizing that their dedication and performance are vital for maintaining Nigeria’s maritime and territorial security.