By Evelyn Usman

The Nigerian Navy has commissioned two accommodation blocks and a modern golf clubhouse at the NNS WEY, Ojo, Lagos, as part of activities marking its 70th Anniversary celebration, with the Chief of the Naval Staff, CNS, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, assuring personnel that the service would continue to prioritise welfare and infrastructure development.

Among the projects commissioned was a 48-flat accommodation block for junior ratings which had reportedly remained abandoned for more than five years before it was revived and completed by the current naval leadership.

Also commissioned were a 16-unit accommodation block for senior ratings and the Dolphin Golf Clubhouse, a recreational facility designed to cater to both military personnel and civilians.

Speaking during the ceremony, the CNS, Vice Admiral Abbas said the projects were evidence of the Nigerian Navy’s determination to improve the living conditions of its personnel and ensure that investments made for their welfare translate into tangible benefits.

According to him, the completion of the projects was in line with the Navy’s commitment to providing a conducive environment for officers, ratings and their families.

His words: “Today’s commissioning is particularly significant because it reflects our determination to ensure that ongoing projects across the service are completed and put to productive use.

“Of special note is the 48-by-1 accommodation block which had remained abandoned for over five years after construction commenced. We will continue to prioritise the completion of abandoned and ongoing projects so that personnel can derive the intended benefits of investments made on their behalf.”

The Naval Chief explained that similar welfare and accommodation projects were ongoing in naval formations across the country, aimed at reducing accommodation shortages and enhancing personnel welfare.

He described the newly commissioned Dolphin Golf Clubhouse as a strategic investment in the social and recreational wellbeing of naval personnel, adding that it would also foster interaction among serving personnel, veterans and members of the public.

Vice Admiral Abbas, however, stressed the need for proper maintenance of the facilities, urging personnel to take ownership of the projects and ensure their sustainability.

“I therefore urge all beneficiaries and users of these facilities to imbibe a strong maintenance culture and take ownership of these investments. Every accommodation block, operational facility and support infrastructure entrusted to our care must be maintained to the highest standards,” he said.

He expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu for “his continued support towards the growth, modernisation and operational effectiveness of the Nigerian Navy”.

Earlier, Commander, NNS WEY, Commodore Mohammed Alhassan, said the projects reflected the Chief of the Naval Staff’s vision of improving personnel welfare through the provision of quality accommodation and support infrastructure.

Giving an overview of the projects, Commodore Alhassan disclosed that work on the 48-flat accommodation block for junior ratings which remained abandoned for more than five years before the intervention of the CNS, resumed in March 2026 and was completed within eight weeks.

He said :”The facility is designed to provide a safe, comfortable and conducive living environment that will enhance the morale, efficiency and effectiveness of personnel. It is also supported by a comprehensive water supply system, including a treatment plant to provide potable water”.

On the Dolphin Golf Clubhouse, the NNS WEY commander explained that the two-storey facility comprised a reception area, general lounge, VIP lounge, bar, kitchen, changing rooms, offices and outdoor relaxation areas.

He disclosed that although the project commenced in July 2025 with a completion date of July 2026, it was delivered two months ahead of schedule through effective supervision and project management.

Commodore Alhassan further revealed that the 16-unit accommodation block for senior ratings had suffered delays due to difficult terrain, poor soil conditions and the absence of supporting infrastructure despite the main buildings having been completed years earlier.

He explained that extensive engineering solutions, including pile foundations and external infrastructure works, were deployed to guarantee the structural integrity, durability and long-term safety of the facility.

He expressed optimism that the projects would significantly reduce accommodation deficits within NNS WEY while improving the welfare and living conditions of personnel and their families.

The event attracted senior naval officers, veterans and other stakeholders who joined the Nigerian Navy in celebrating seven decades of service to the nation.