The Navy celebrates its 70th anniversary with a humanitarian commitment to the orphanage

As part of activities celebrating its 70th anniversary, the Nigerian Navy extended humanitarian outreach with a visit to the Ministry of Mercy orphanage, reaffirming its commitment not only to national security but also to community service.

Leading the delegation to the Lokoja Orphanage on Tuesday, the Commander of the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Lugard, Commodore Adesola Ojo, described the visit as a reflection of the Navy’s enduring bond with the Nigerian people, especially the most vulnerable in the society.

Speaking during the visit, Commodore Ojo said the Navy’s 70-year journey has been defined not only by operational achievements at sea, but also by its humanity and shared responsibility towards citizens.

He noted that the initiative aimed to demonstrate love, care and solidarity with children.

“Today’s visit is not simply ceremonial; it reflects what truly defines us as service to humanity, compassion and shared responsibility for one another.

“These children represent the hope, innocence and promise of tomorrow, and it is our collective duty to nurture and protect that promise,” he said.

NNS Commander Lugard stressed that under the leadership of Chief of Naval Staff Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, the Navy continued to prioritize civil-military relations alongside its core mandate of maritime security.

According to him, the Service remains deeply connected to the people it serves, noting that initiatives such as the orphanage visit highlight the Navy’s broader role in nation-building beyond its military responsibilities.

“We are here to share love, encouragement and reassurance that you are not forgotten. You are valued, you matter and your dreams matter to us as a Service and as a nation,” he said.

He also praised the management and caregivers of the orphanage for their dedication and selfless service, describing their efforts as crucial in shaping the future of children and contributing to national development.

The visit, which included interactions with children and the presentation of supporting articles, was part of the Navy’s anniversary activities aimed at strengthening ties with host communities and promoting humanitarian values.

The Nigerian Navy, established in 1956, celebrates seventy years of service, sacrifice and commitment to safeguard the nation’s maritime dominance, while promoting unity and goodwill across the country.

Earlier, a representative of the orphanage, Mr Samson Aliyu, expressed appreciation to the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Lugard for extending a hand of friendship to the orphans as part of activities celebrating the 70th anniversary of the Navy.

He called on other well-meaning individuals and organizations to emulate the Navy’s gesture by supporting the home, stressing that such assistance would help provide for the growing number of children in its care.

“This home is a volunteer-based Christian facility that cares for orphaned and motherless children. It was established in 1992, first in Dekina Local Government Area of ​​Kogi State, before this branch in Lokoja. Today, we have more than 75 children, excluding adults, that we care for in this home,” he said.