By Evelyn Usman
The Western Naval Command , WNC of the Nigerian Navy, weekend, held the closing ceremony of its 2025 Intra-Command Sports Competition at the Nigerian Navy Sports Complex, Navy Town, Ojo, with the Flag Officer Commanding, FOC Rear Admiral Michael Oamen, describing sports as a vital tool for enhancing physical fitness, esprit de corps and teamwork among naval personnel.
Reiterating the Command’s commitment to physical and mental readiness, Rear Admiral Oamen told the gathering that, “Beyond the excitement of competition, this event is designed to promote unity, discipline, and mental alertness. These values are as important on the parade ground as they are in the field of battle. It is only when we are fit and cohesive that we can deliver on our operational mandates.”
The competition, according to him, had again demonstrated the enduring spirit of the Western Naval Command.”From the march-past at the opening to the football finals today, our officers and ratings have shown discipline, skill, and teamwork. These are the same qualities we expect them to bring into their duties in defence of the nation”, he stated.
The week-long championship, which began with a colourful opening ceremony last Tuesday featured personnel grouped into four combat teams: Alpha, Bravo, Charlie, and Delta. They contested in football, tug-of-war, athletics and other sports as part of preparations for the upcoming Nigerian Navy Games.
Highlight of the closing ceremony was the medal presentation, where Team Alpha emerged overall champions with a total of 41 medals, including 16 gold. Team Charlie came second with 13 gold and 31 medals in all, while Team Bravo placed third with 11 gold out of 33 medals. Team Delta finished fourth with two gold medals and 19 medals overall.
The day’s excitement opened with the football final, which saw Team Bravo edge Team Charlie by 3-1, followed by a tug-of-war contest that brought spectators to their feet.
In his closing remark, Rear Admiral Oamen urged participants to sustain the spirit of sportsmanship beyond the competition.
Admonishing them, he said “Let us not forget that fitness is not seasonal, it is a continuous duty. I expect every officer and rating to keep this spirit alive, to carry it into your training, your watch duties, and your operations. Sports may end today, but its discipline must remain with us always.”
Special guests at the event included General Officer Commanding 81 Division Nigerian Army, Major General Farouk Mijinyawa; Director of Seaport Operations, National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA , Assistant Commander General of Narcotics, Mrs. Archie-Abia Ibinabo, and Rear Admiral SD Ibrahim, Chief Staff Officer of WNC, among others.
