ADDRESS BY THE CHIEF OF THE NAVAL STAFF AT THE COMMISSIONING CEREMONY OF CENTRAL BANK INTERVENTION PROJECTS AT NIGERIAN NAVY FINANCE AND LOGISTICS COLLEGE OWERRINTA
PROTOCOL
1. On behalf of the officers, ratings and civilian staff of the Nigerian Navy, I am delighted to witness the commissioning ceremony of the CBN intervention projects at the Nigerian Navy Finance and Logistics College (NNFLC) Owerrinta. At inception, the NNFLC was established to train Nigerian Navy (NN) officers and ratings of the old Supply and Secretariat Branch. However, the expansion in NN operational engagements necessitated the upgrade of the College’s curriculum to cater for the training of personnel from the Accounts and Budget and Logistics Branches.
2. Notably, the College has evolved through the years to become a training institution that strives for the highest standards of training towards achieving the objectives of the Revised NN Transformation Plan. I am particularly glad to note that the College, in pursuit of the Revised Transformation Plan 2011 – 2020, has repositioned its training activities especially in catering, financial and logistics management. The College has also introduced the Ordinary National Diploma Programmes and Long Logistics Management Course in addition to reviving practical catering programmes. These achievements were made possible when the College and indeed the NN approached the CBN for its intervention to construct critical training facilities. Gladly, the CBN Governor and management obliged the request by constructing an administrative block, academic block, auditorium, gymnasium and swimming pool. Others are the male and female hostels, library and a dining hall.
3. It is important to mention that these projects commenced in 2013 but suffered funding and project management setbacks which delayed its completion. However, through the collective effort of stakeholders and commitment of the CBN, the project finally came to fruition and the reason for today’s event. It is instructive to state that this infrastructural development has not only enhanced the aesthetic outlook of the College but significantly improved the learning and working environment for the students and staff alike.
4. It is a generally accepted norm that training constitutes the best form of welfare to the military workforce. Thus, in line with my vision which accords priority to training and welfare of the personnel, I ensured due diligence in the application of the resources approved by my predecessor for the furnishing of the facilities for commissioning today. Thus, despite other pressing demands, the NN under my watch would ensure continued support to NNFLC as well as provision of the wherewithal for its training activities.
5. As I conclude, I am pleased to state that today’s event bears testimony to the close relationship and cooperation between the NN and CBN as well as the Governors of Abia and Imo States that have sustained their support to the College in its drive to ensure quality training. Permit me therefore, to use this occasion to express my desire to see more progress in our cooperation for the mutual benefit of our respective organisations. I am certain that the officers, ratings and civilian staff of the College have taken ownership of these facilities and would ensure its preservation. Furthermore, I want to reiterate to the officers and ratings that the FG demands your loyalty and professionalism in the discharge of your responsibilities.
6. On this note, I wish to express my sincere appreciation to the Governor, management and staff of the CBN for this monumental intervention project. I also thank the Governors of Abia and Imo States for their support and presence at this occasion. To our other invited guests, we are indeed honoured by your presence. Thank you all and Onward Together.