The Nigerian Navy has charged junior officers to strengthen tactical leadership and operational competence in response to evolving security challenges across the country.
The Chief of Administration, Naval Headquarters, Rear Adm. Jonathan Mamman, made the call on Thursday in Abuja, during the closing of the Naval Base Abuja Junior Officers Development Programme 2026.
Mamman was represented by the Director of Administration, Rear Adm. Adedokun Siyanbade.
He said the theme of the programme, “Improving Tactical Level Capacity for Operational Efficiency,” underscored the need for continuous leadership and management development among junior officers in line with contemporary security realities.
Mamman said the programme aligned with the vision of the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Adm. Idi Abbas, aimed at building a modern, agile and professional naval force capable of securing Nigeria’s maritime interests and supporting national security operations.
According to him, the Naval Base Abuja plays a strategic role in supporting Naval Headquarters and contributing to the security of the Federal Capital Territory.
He added that experiences from operational theatres such as the North-East and Niger Delta highlighted the importance of strong tactical leadership.
Mamman noted that participants were exposed to lectures on leadership, operational planning, ethics, law, regimentation, and drills, urging them to apply the knowledge in their various deployments.
He commended the Commander and staff of Naval Base Abuja for successfully organising the programme and urged participants to uphold the core values of integrity, professionalism and teamwork.
He also charged them to remain disciplined, focused and exemplary in conduct while taking full ownership of their responsibilities.
“Remember to always strive for excellence and be good examples to your subordinates,” he said.
The Commander, Naval Unit Abuja, Commodore Oluseyi Oladipo, said the programme featured about 19 participants drawn from Naval Base Abuja and its sub-units, describing it as a deliberate effort to enhance tactical leadership capacity within the service.
He said the training was expected to improve performance in ongoing naval operations and strengthen professionalism in the field.
Also speaking, the representative of participants, Lt. Ridwan Yusuf, expressed appreciation to the naval leadership for the training opportunity, describing it as impactful and career-enhancing.
Yusuf said the programme had equipped officers with critical skills in leadership and operations, pledging that participants would apply the lessons learned to improve performance and efficiency in service delivery.
He also commended resource persons, facilitators and organisers for their commitment to the success of the programme.
