By Evelyn Usman

History was made at the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) WEY, Navy Town, Ojo, Lagos, on Wednesday, with the commissioning of a state-of-the-art multipurpose hall that will serve as a space to conduct lectures, training sessions, and other socio-cultural activities.

Speaking at the commissioning of the 200-sitting capacity hall, the Flag Officer Commanding (FOC) Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral Mustapha Hassan, described the edifice, which was named after the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, as a testament to the transformative power of visionary leadership and an example of what can be achieved when collective efforts are focused on a common goal.

The FOC, who was the special guest of honor at the occasion, stated that the remodeled multipurpose hall was not just a physical structure but symbolized followership, commitment, and progress, adding that it would serve as a hub for various learning and social activities of the NNS WEY.

While applauding the doggedness of the Commander, NNS WEY, Commodore Mutairu Braimah, and his team for the initiative, which he said aligned with the attainment of the CNS vision and Strategic Directives, he said the feat was part of the unwritten responsibilities expected of every Commander.

“I’m delighted to commission the Multipurpose Hall, named after Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogala. This exceptional facility will greatly benefit the NNS WEY community. It will provide ample space for larger meetings, socio-cultural gatherings, and family events. Ultimately, a happy and thriving social base will enhance our professional efficiency,” he said.

He recalled that in March 2024, when he came to NNS WEY on an unscheduled visit to the base, the Commanding Officer invited him to the hall and briefed him on his intention to remodel the structure into a mini hall and a library for his men. He applauded the initiative but advised that it would be better to have a sizeable hall that could still incorporate a bookshelf for reading purposes.

“I am happy to see this structure, which will undoubtedly add value to the activities of the base,” he said.

“I would like to appreciate the Chief of Naval Staff for the continued support and quality leadership that simplifies his vision and Mission statement. The CNS’s giant strides in springing up new projects in Navy Town and, by extension, the WNC, attest to the impressive leadership of the Chief, which has further created a pathway worthy of emulation by senior naval officers.”

“This feat by Commander Braimah is part of the unwritten responsibilities expected of every Commander, that they add value to any unit they command. I encourage the Commanding Officer and his team to continue on this trajectory while ensuring that Nigerian Navy barracks in Lagos are well administered and secured.”

Earlier in his opening remark, the Commander, NNS WEY, Commodore Mutairu Braimah, disclosed that the project, which commenced on March 27, 2024, two months after he took over the saddle, was completed within the duration of five months, which coincidentally marked his seventh month as Commander NNS WEY.

He explained that upon assuming office in January 2024, he recognized the urgent need for a dedicated space to conduct lectures, training sessions, and other activities. The parade ground, previously used for such purposes, according to him, was woefully inadequate, hence the need to build a more conducive environment that would foster growth, learning, and camaraderie among officers and men.

Despite initial reservations about the project’s cost, he said he remained resolute in his commitment to delivering the vital infrastructure, adding that through sheer perseverance and strategic planning, he and his team overcame the challenges, and the project was completed in six stages.

While attributing the feat to the enabling environment created by the Chief of Naval Staff for Commanders to thrive in their respective Areas of Responsibilities, Braimah revealed that the edifice was named after the former by way of showing gratitude for the ongoing projects he had approved in Navy Town.

He disclosed that the CNS had, within the last six months, re-mobilized five contractors back to site to continue work on hitherto abandoned projects, as well as awarded 14 new projects (Direct Labour), all in Navy Town. In addition, he said the CNS had issued one brand new Ashok truck and two tractors and one Compactor for refuse management.

Highlighting areas he intends to add value, in addition to his primary role of administering the barracks in line with the CNS Strategic Directives, Braimah said: “First is on human development and welfare. This is because we need a highly motivated workforce to drive home our aspirations. Hence, I emplaced a system that ensures that all officers are carried along in terms of welfare. Having looked inward, welfare package was extended to very vulnerable persons in the barracks, particularly widows.”

“Secondly, regarding vehicular movement: NNS WEY administers 10 barracks/quarters in the Lagos area, and hence, the need for constant movement cannot be overstated. Regrettably, only one bus and one Hilux were partially serviceable. The FOC graciously loaned the base one Hilux. Presently, three Hilux and three buses are serviceable and operational.

“Thirdly, the facelift of the barracks is starting with Navy Town. This includes painting the main and NOD gates, painting some of the kerb stones abandoned by contractors, filling some potholes, repairing and painting bus stops, including placing waste bins in all the bus stops and some other strategic places, and so on.”

Commodore Braimah, however, solicited some items needed for the proper functioning of the remodelled hall. These include:

Two 75 inches Televisions, 3  Standing air conditioners,  Desktop Computers, 150 additional chairs, Two dispensers, five Standing fans, projector, CCTV cameras, Lectern with a wireless microphone and a music box.