Nigerian Navy Recruits 1,962 Ratings to Strengthen Security Operations Nationwide

The Nigerian Navy has successfully completed the recruitment of 1,962 new ratings to bolster ongoing joint military operations across the country. The inductees were sworn in during the Batch 37 Passing Out Parade at the Nigerian Navy Basic Training School (NNBTS), Onne, Rivers, led by the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas.

The new ratings are expected to serve aboard warships to tackle oil theft and maritime piracy, while also supporting ground forces in counter-insurgency and other security operations. “This recruitment comes at a time when our nation faces threats including maritime crime, terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and violent extremism,” Vice Adm. Abbas said.

The recruits completed six months of rigorous training designed to bridge theoretical knowledge and practical skills, including live-firing exercises, combat swimming, field-craft, and visit, board, search, and seizure drills. The Navy highlighted that the upgraded training curriculum ensures personnel are prepared for Nigeria’s increasingly complex security challenges.

Established in 1975, NNBTS has trained over 27,500 personnel. Abbas further inaugurated several new projects at the school, including a bakery, remodelled residential quarters, an officers’ mess, a command office complex, and a golf course. He urged the new sailors to uphold discipline, integrity, and teamwork as they join the Navy’s mission to protect the country and its maritime resources.

The Navy chief also commended Rear Admiral Victor Choji, Commandant of NNBTS, for his efforts in transforming the institution into a modern training hub aligned with the Navy’s operational goals.