The Nigerian Navy has announced its decision to move the Naval Training Command headquarters from Lagos to Onne in Rivers State. Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, Chief of Naval Staff, disclosed this during a meeting with Governor Siminalayi Fubara, highlighting the significant ties between the Navy and Rivers State.

In a threefold purpose, Ogalla informed Governor Fubara about the imminent graduation of civilians trained at the Basic Training School in Onne, who will join the Navy as ratings. He also expressed gratitude for educational facilities donated by the Rivers State government and revealed the renovation of a school in Eleme, which will now house the Naval Training Command headquarters.

Ogalla further detailed the Navy’s recent successes in combating maritime crimes, particularly oil theft. He cited Operation Delta Sanity, launched in January 2024, which resulted in the seizure of 14 vessels engaged in illegal crude oil activities and numerous arrests, leading to enhanced maritime security.

Governor Fubara praised the Navy’s efforts and pledged continued support from the state government. He lauded their collaboration in reducing oil theft and emphasized the need to sustain such positive outcomes. Fubara reiterated the government’s commitment to providing logistical and moral backing for the Navy’s operations, highlighting the achievements as evidence of progress in Rivers State.