By Efe Onodjae

In a move to promote public awareness and foster a deeper connection between the Nigerian Navy and its host community in the Ojo area of Lagos State, the Nigerian Navy Ship WEY (NNS WEY), Ojo, Lagos, unveiled the first edition of Sailors’ Home Front Magazine over the weekend.
The 176-page magazine, which is the first in the history of the 50 years of the establishment of the NNS WEY, chronicles the activities, achievements, and commitment of NNS WEY’s officers and men in fulfilling their mandate of safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime sovereignty.

In his keynote address at the launch of the maiden edition of the magazine held at the Multipurpose Hall of the NNS WEY, Navy Town, the Flag Officer Commanding (FOC) Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral Michael Oamen, emphasized the importance of the magazine in aligning with the vision of the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, to foster a Nigerian Navy that not only safeguards the nation’s sovereignty but also showcases the strength and resilience of its personnel.

While commending NNS WEY for undertaking the project, Rear Admiral Oamen noted that the magazine celebrated the selfless efforts of naval personnel in service to the nation and also highlighted its impact on the morale and performance of personnel. He emphasized that the magazine played a crucial role in showcasing the Navy’s achievements and challenges, thereby fostering a sense of pride and ownership among its personnel.

By sharing their stories and experiences, the magazine, according to him, “aims to inspire and motivate officers and men to strive for excellence in their duties.”

Speaking with journalists, the Commander of NNS WEY, Commodore Mutairu Braimah, explained that the maiden edition of the magazine was a result of the numerous achievements of NNS WEY, which he said was the oldest Navy barracks.

He stated, “Today is quite significant for me because NNS WEY is one of the oldest units in the Nigerian Navy. With all the activities that have been carried out in NNS WEY, I thought it wise and instructive to document them in the form of a magazine. It will interest you to know that after over 50 years, this is our maiden magazine.

“This 176-page magazine captures much of what NNS WEY is doing, and I feel very elated as the Commander to have championed this effort. I believe that this magazine will further enhance the civil-military relationship, not only within Oriade Local Government but throughout Lagos State and Nigeria as a whole.
“The Chief of Naval Staff has invested significantly in the barracks. A major project is ongoing here, along with outreach efforts to vulnerable communities, which have facilitated improved relationships within the barracks. We feel that the general public needs to know about our efforts.”