In a bid to strengthen collaboration and foster synergy in the maritime domain, Rear Admiral Patrick Nwatu, the Flag Officer Commanding Naval Training Command, embarked on a courtesy visit to key stakeholders on Wednesday, June 7, 2023. Accompanied by his principal staff officers, Rear Admiral Nwatu visited several prominent institutions, including The Hydrographer of the Nigerian Navy, The Commandant Armed Forces Resettlement Centre in Oshodi, the Nigeria Ports Authority Simulation Centre in Apapa, Lagos, and the Director General of the Nigeria Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA).
The first stop on the tour was The Hydrographer of the Nigerian Navy, where Rear Admiral Nwatu and his team met with senior officials responsible for hydrographic surveys and charting. The delegation then proceeded to The Commandant Armed Forces Resettlement Centre in Oshodi, a facility renowned for providing training and rehabilitation programs for retired military personnel. Rear Admiral Nwatu and his staff officers were briefed on the center’s activities and explored potential avenues for collaboration in maritime training initiatives.
Next on the itinerary was the Nigeria Ports Authority Simulation Centre in Apapa, Lagos. This state-of-the-art facility offers realistic training scenarios for port operations, ship handling, and maritime safety. Rear Admiral Nwatu and his team observed various simulation exercises and engaged in discussions on promoting maritime safety standards.
The final visit of the day took place at the headquarters of the Nigeria Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) in Lagos. The Director General of NIMASA received Rear Admiral Nwatu and his delegation, where they discussed maritime regulatory frameworks, enforcement strategies, and collaborative efforts to combat maritime crimes.
During each visit, Rear Admiral Nwatu expressed his appreciation for the warm reception received and reiterated the Naval Training Command’s commitment to enhancing cooperation and coordination with stakeholders in the maritime sector. He emphasized the need for continuous capacity building and emphasized the importance of joint efforts in ensuring a safe and secure maritime environment.