Navy @70: Naval Chief Hails Shooting Tournament as Symbol of Armed Forces Unity
The Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, has described the special novelty shooting tournament organised to mark the Nigerian Navy’s 70th anniversary as a strong symbol of unity, professionalism, and cooperation among the Armed Forces.
Speaking at the event, which brought together personnel of the Nigerian Navy, Army, and Air Force alongside invited stakeholders, Abbas said the competition reflected the growing spirit of inter-service collaboration and mutual respect within the Armed Forces of Nigeria.
He noted that beyond the competitive aspect, the tournament served as a platform to strengthen bonds of friendship, discipline, and camaraderie among participants, describing it as a timely contribution to ongoing efforts to deepen military cohesion.
“It is with great pleasure and a deep sense of honour that I make this remark at this special air shooting novelty tournament organised as part of activities marking the 70th anniversary celebration of the Nigerian Navy,” the Naval Chief said.
Vice Admiral Abbas said the Nigerian Navy’s journey from its modest establishment in 1956 to its current status as a modern maritime force reflects decades of sacrifice, professionalism, and institutional growth.
According to him, the anniversary was not only a celebration of longevity but also a recognition of the service’s role in safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime domain and contributing to national security and economic stability.
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He commended participants for their discipline, sportsmanship, and competitive spirit, stressing that the true value of the tournament lay in the unity it fostered across the services rather than the prizes or scores recorded.
Abbas also expressed appreciation to the Nigerian Shooting Sports Federation for its partnership and technical support in delivering what he described as a historic event in the Armed Forces sporting calendar.
He further thanked stakeholders and guests for their presence, noting that their participation reinforced the spirit of cooperation that the Nigerian Navy continues to promote through its engagements.
Also speaking, the President of the Nigerian Shooting Sports Federation, Mallam Shetimma Mohammed, described the tournament as a landmark achievement, noting that it was the first novelty shooting competition involving personnel from the three branches of the Armed Forces in honour of the Navy’s anniversary.
He praised the leadership of the Naval Chief for promoting sportsmanship and inter-service integration, adding that the initiative could open new opportunities for military participation in shooting sports and talent development.
Mohammed expressed optimism that the collaboration between the Armed Forces and the federation would continue to grow, particularly in training, technical exchange, and future competitions.
The Navy @70 celebration continues with a series of events aimed at highlighting institutional achievements, strengthening civil-military relations, and promoting unity across Nigeria’s defence architecture.
