REMARKS BY THE CHIEF OF THE NAVAL STAFF VICE ADMIRAL AZ GAMBO AM GSS psc ensp (RSA) MTM MNIM MUSNI FCIS FIIPS FCAI AT THE 80TH BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION AND LAUNCH OF THE AUTOBIOGRAPHY OF REAR ADMIRAL OP FINGESI (RTD) ON 18 SEPTEMBER 2021
PROTOCOL
1. It is with a deep sense of humility and gratitude that I, on behalf of the officers, ratings and civilian staff of the Nigerian Navy thank the Almighty God for His mercies upon us all on this momentous occasion of the 80th Birthday celebration and launch of the Autobiography of the celebrant R Adm OP Fingesi. Distinguished invited guests, today’s event is indeed a celebration of life. To have attained the 8th Decade of life is no mean feat.
2. As an Octogenarian, the senior officer is an Elder Statesman who has seen it all. There is no gainsaying the fact that the celebrant is a national beacon of reference and a worthy icon of the Nigerian Navy. God has blessed him with wisdom, knowledge, experience and more importantly good health. We cannot but continue to thank Almighty God and rejoice with you and your family. May you enjoy more days ahead of you, Sir.
3. Notably, birthdays are usually occasions to reflect and appreciate life generally by recounting unforgettable moments. In this wise, the Nigerian Navy family is lucky to have you and to share this moment with you. Sir, your exploits onboard NNS ARADU remain indelible in our minds. Worthy of note, was your outstanding ship handling skills which resulted in the fastest man-overboard recovery to date even with the advances in technology. This singular act which took place during the maiden homebound voyage of NNS ARADU announced the NN to the seafaring world. Sir, you have left a legacy of hard work and professionalism. The Nigerian Navy family is indeed lucky to have you as one of her own and we truly cherish you, Sir. This birthday remark no doubt aligns with the launch of the very captivating and authoritative autobiography of our distinguished icon of inestimable value.
4. The Book, The Biography of Rear Admiral Ochegomie Promise Fingesi (rtd) is a chronicle of a father figure and mentor who helped to advance the training and career of several officers who served onboard NNS ARADU. Some of these officers rose to become Chiefs of the Naval Staff at different times. Additionally, Rear Admiral Promise (rtd) was the first Flag Officer Commanding Naval Training Command (NAVTRAC) and oversaw the establishment and building of most of the naval training schools, and diving facilities as well as the acquisition of the training simulators and manuals still in use in the Nigerian Navy. This saved the country huge sums previously expended on foreign training of naval personnel. All these were manifestations of sound professional training obtained at the United States Naval War College where he obtained an equivalent of an academic master’s degree in strategy, management and naval operations.
5. Our amiable Rear Admiral was appointed into the Federal Executive Council as the Federal Commissioner of Special Duties in 1975 from the Navy. He was responsible for the Second World Black and African Festival of Arts and Culture (FESTAC) and performed creditably well before returning to the Navy to continue his celebrated career. I congratulate Rear Admiral Fingesi for recounting his life journey for the benefit of those coming behind. The Nigerian Navy is proud of its achievements both within and outside the Navy. I have no doubt in my mind that the autobiography of this icon will not only inspire the younger generation but will be of immense benefit for generations yet unborn. Furthermore, I am convinced that the book would serve as useful reference material for academic research. I implore all to take time and read this personal record of sacrifice, hard work and uncommon commitment to the service of the fatherland.
6. On this note, I wish to on behalf of the entire Nigerian Navy family express my sincere appreciation to all invited guests that have graced this occasion. Your presence has indeed added value to the event. I wish to once again congratulate our amiable celebrant and to pray that Almighty God grant you more years in good health. Thank you all, God bless and Onward Together.