BY PHILIP NWOSU
The Flag Officer Commanding (FOC) Naval Training Command (NAVTRAC) in Lagos at the weekend drew all officers and men of the command to a route match geared towards to testing the physical and mental fitness of personnel in the command.
The FOC Rear Admiral Obi Ofodile told Daily Sun that the route match wasto put the officer and men in physical state to be able to carry out the training they were supposed to deliver to naval operatives.
He adjudged the over 2000 personnel who participated in the physical exercised fit to perform their duty as naval personnel, insisting that he arrived at conclusion after the 10 kilometre walk and when none of the personnel involved in it were carried on the ambulance.
Rear Admiral Ofodile led the match of the troop from the Naval Training Command parade ground in Apapa down to Costain area of Lagos and back to Apapa.
In the face of current security challenges in the country, Admiral Ofodile said that the need to keep personnel fit for operation cannot be overemphasized, adding that this was the reason the fitness and mental alertness are among the critical elements of the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Ibok Ette Ibas’ policy thrust.
He said: “It is important for us to acknowledge the essence of this route match, this Naval Training Command, we train for knowledge and excellent performance in our operation, and we cannot achieve that if you are not mentally alert and physically fit.
“In line with the vision and mission of the Chief Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Ibok Ibas which is ‘to o develop a credible naval power in fulfillment of the Nigerian Navy’s constitutional roles towards enhancing national prosperity and security and to deploy a naval force that is well trained, organised and highly motivated to discharge its constitutional roles professionally and efficiently for the defence of Nigeria in ensuring her economic prosperity,’ we have train to be able to pursue this vision.”
Admiral Ofodile said the 10kilometer match was targeted at keeping personnel fit for military duties, fostering espirit de corps and enhancing wellness of the body and physical alertness of personnel.
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