Minister of Defence, Maj.-Gen. Bashir Magashi, (rtd), has charged trainee ratings of Batch 33 of the Nigerian Navy Basic Training School in Onne to be committed to developing competence and capabilities towards combating security challenges across the country.
The minister, who spoke through the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Isiaka Amao, at the passing-out ceremony of naval trainees, urged the graduands to maximise their potential and add value to the nation.
He said: “The basic training school Onne has, over the years, maintained the mandate of transforming civilians into professional and competent ratings. I am aware that, over the years, the trainees are involved in best practices to face contemporary challenges involved in meeting global standard. I am convinced that you have acquired the requisite knowledge and capacity necessary for the execution of kinetic means of resolving conflict during the emergence of crisis situation. I, therefore, urge you to effectively utilise the acquired skills in the discharge of your duty in support of national security.”
He commended the graduates, saying they joined the service at the time the country required armed forces to effectively combat security challenges across the country.