Rear Admiral Robert Obeya, the Flag Officer Commanding Naval Training Command (FOC NAVTRAC), has made a bold call for a tech-driven overhaul of training in the Nigerian Navy’s professional schools. During a recent visit to the Nigerian Naval Institute of Technology (NNIT) in Sapele, Admiral Obeya didn’t mince words: the Navy’s training ecosystem needs a digital and technical upgrade to keep pace with global standards.
This isn’t just about shiny new gadgets—it’s about equipping personnel with the tools they need to operate in an increasingly complex maritime environment. The Admiral’s push for advanced training aids and equipment underscores a strategic shift: the Nigerian Navy is no longer just maintaining the status quo; it’s actively seeking to elevate its training infrastructure to meet international benchmarks.
Admiral Obeya’s visit wasn’t just a ceremonial tour. He rolled up his sleeves, inspected facilities, and engaged directly with personnel. His message was clear: the Navy’s training policy is about more than just ticking boxes—it’s about fostering continuous learning, specialized skills, and leadership development. He emphasized the need for improved swimming efficiency, ICT proficiency, and public speaking training to build confidence and leadership qualities among ratings.
The Admiral’s remarks carried weight, especially when he commended the NNIT for maintaining operational standards despite aging equipment. This isn’t just about hardware; it’s about ensuring that personnel are trained to the highest possible standards, even when resources are limited. His call for advanced technology and improved training aids is a recognition that the Navy’s future readiness depends on investing in the right tools and systems.
The Commandant of NNIT, Rear Admiral SJ Oyegade, welcomed the visit, noting that it provided the FOC with firsthand insight into the institution’s facilities and challenges. This kind of direct engagement is crucial—it ensures that decision-makers have a clear understanding of the ground realities, which in turn informs better policy and resource allocation.
During his tour, Admiral Obeya visited several key schools within the NNIT, including the Nuclear Biological Chemical Defence Warfare and Damage Control Including Fire Fighting (NBCF) School, the Marine Engineering School, and the Weapon Engineering School. His interactions with students and staff were not just about inspection—they were about motivation. He encouraged officers to take their academics seriously, emphasizing that personal growth and career advancement are directly tied to their commitment to learning.
This visit and its outcomes are more than just a routine inspection. They signal a broader shift in the Nigerian Navy’s approach to training and professional development. By prioritizing advanced technology, continuous learning, and leadership development, the Navy is positioning itself to meet the evolving demands of maritime security in the 21st century.
The question now is whether this momentum will translate into concrete action. The Navy’s leadership has set the tone, but the real work lies in turning these aspirations into reality. The stakes are high, and the expectations are clear: the Nigerian Navy must not just keep up with global standards—it must strive to set them.