The Nigerian Navy has reiterated its commitment to ensuring safety within the nation’s maritime domain at all times.

It also expressed its personnel’s readiness to support efforts to address security challenges nationwide whenever required.

The flag officer commanding, Eastern Naval Command, Saheed Akinwande, made this known on Friday in Calabar during the closing ceremony of this year’s range classification and small arms firing exercise.

Mr Akinwande described the exercise as a “routine evolution” designed to fine-tune and sharpen the marksmanship skills of naval personnel.

“As you can see, since we started, it’s been an evolution involving everybody on board, both officers and ratings, because weapon handling is a foundational skill for all personnel.

“Every personnel must be proficient in weapon handling and usage. This exercise is for us to fine-tune those skills and competencies,” Mr Akinwande said.

He noted that the training was crucial, as naval deployments could happen at any time, requiring officers and ratings to be battle-ready.

“We can be called upon at any time of the day to respond to threats or challenges.

“This exercise ensures that our personnel are prepared to respond effectively to security threats within the maritime environment and on waterways,” he stated.

No fewer than 800 officers and ratings participated in the three-day exercise, which began on Wednesday.

During the opening ceremony, Mr Akinwande underscored the navy’s unwavering dedication to professionalism and operational readiness.

“As we remain focused, let us continue to build a Navy that is not only respected, but also feared by its adversaries, both at sea and on land,” he said.

(NAN)