Lagos — The Nigerian Navy (NN) at the weekend, held its annual Ceremonial Sunset and Awards Night at the Naval Dockyard, Victoria Island, Lagos, marking the formal conclusion of its activities for the year and celebrating outstanding service across the force.
The event, which upheld one of the long-standing traditions of navies worldwide, was hosted by the Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Idi Abbas (Admiralty Medal), who was accompanied by his wife, Mrs Aisha Idi Abbas.
The Ceremonial Sunset served as a platform to recognise and reward officers and ratings whose dedication and professionalism contributed significantly to the actualisation of the Nigerian Navy’s mandate in 2025.
The Honourable Minister of State for Defence, Dr Bello Muhammad Matawalle, attended the occasion as the Special Guest of Honour. Other dignitaries present included the representative of the Governor of Lagos State and Secretary to the State Government, Barrister Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin; Chairman, Senate Committee on the Navy, Senator Otunba Gbenga Daniel; the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede; and the Chief of Defence Intelligence, Lieutenant General Emmanuel Undiandeye.
Also in attendance were several former Chiefs of the Naval Staff, including Vice Admirals A. Aduwo, V.K. Ombu, A.A. Afolayan, D.J. Ezeoba, U.O. Jibrin, E.I. Ogalla, as well as Admiral O.S. Ibrahim. The wife of a former CNS, Mrs Theresa Ibas, was also among the distinguished guests.
The ceremony was marked by grandeur, pageantry and refined elegance, as traditional naval customs were seamlessly blended with modern sophistication. Carefully choreographed ceremonial displays and a dignified awards presentation highlighted the discipline, heritage and professionalism that define the Nigerian Navy.
Beyond the celebration of excellence, the event underscored the enduring values of honour, service and camaraderie that remain central to naval operations and leadership. Officers and ratings who distinguished themselves during the year were honoured for their commitment to duty and contribution to maritime security and national defence.
The Ceremonial Sunset and Awards Night once again reaffirmed the Nigerian Navy’s pride in its traditions while reinforcing its resolve to sustain professionalism and operational excellence in the years ahead.
