Mustapha assumes duty as new FOC Western Naval command, Oamen bows out

Rear Admiral Abubakar Mustapha has taken over as the new Flag Officer Commanding ( FOC), Western Naval Command, where he pledged to establish a strong, technology-driven naval presence aimed at detecting and denying any criminal activity within the Command.

Mustapha took over the mantle of leadership from the former FOC Rear Admiral Gregory Oamen on Wednesday in a colourful ceremony held at the command in Lagos.

The ceremony, which included the signing of the Handing Over Note and the presentation of the Command’s insnew ignia also witnessed farewell parade in honor of the outgone FOC.

Speaking shortly after the official handing over ceremony, Rear Admiral Mustapha expressed appreciation to the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, for the opportunity to serve at the Nigerian Navy’s premier naval command and pledged to uphold and build upon his predecessor’s legacy.

In his valedictory remarks, Rear Admiral Oamen expressed his gratitude to God Almighty for the grace, wisdom, and strength he had received throughout his tenure.

He extended his thanks to the officers, ratings, and civilian staff for their selfless support and service and urged them to offer the same commitment to Rear Admiral Mustapha.

Following the ceremony, the farewell parade and pulling out ceremony for Rear Admiral Oamen were held at the NNS BEECROFT Parade Ground.

The event was attended by several dignitaries, including the GOC 81 Division, representative of the AOC, NAF Logistics, senior officers from police and paramilitary agencies, as well as serving and retired officers.