As part of efforts to boost the operational efficiency and welfare of personnel, the Chief of the Naval Staff, (CNS), Vice Admiral Awwal Gambo, has unveiled a few social amenities at the Eastern Naval Command, (ENC), in Calabar, the capital of Cross River State, southern Nigeria.
The facilities launched within the command include an Officers’ Gym Centre fully equipped with state-of-the-art exercise machines; while some corner shops at the 1006 naval officers barracks were officially opened for business.
During the inauguration of the gymnasium, Vice Admiral Awwal Gambo charged the officers, who are the direct beneficiaries of the facility, to utilize the centre optimally to keep fit.
Gambo, who was visibly impressed with the quality of the exercise centre, said “I have the singular honour and privilege to cut this tape and commission the beautiful edifice, the gym for officers of the Eastern Naval Command.
“It is my hope that officers will make good use of this facility to keep fit at all times. As you all know, for us to achieve our mandate demands effective and efficient personnel. Our operational efficiency cannot be compromised and that is one reason the navy is committed to developing project strategically targeted to fulfill its vision and mission,” said the CNS.
He also expressed hope that the corner shops located within the officers’ quarters at the 1006 Navy barracks, Calabar, will serve the personnel welfare and positively impact their families.
Expanding the experience
Earlier, the Flag Officer Commanding, (FOC), Eastern Naval Command, ENC, Rear Admiral Ibrahim Dewu described the gymnasium as a critical facility for the navy.
Rear Admiral Dewu explained that the decision to establish the gym was to provide officers at the 1006 barracks easy access to exercise equipment, promote regular fitness schedule and most importantly expanding the experience for personnel in the different barracks.
According to him, “when I resumed in Calabar, I realised that the only gym we had was at the Atimbo Navy barracks, which is very far from the 1006 Navy Officers’ quarters. So, we needed another gym that would be accessible and central to all.
“So, we set to work and saw a space at the 1006 barracks. I am happy that today we have a completely equipped gym for officers of the Eastern Naval Command. With this facility, we hope officers would have regular fitness schedule, which would translate positively in our operations in the security of the nation’s maritime domain,” he stated.
The ceremony was attended by other service commanders in Cross River State including principal officers from the naval headquarters.
