The Eastern Naval Command (ENC) of the Nigerian Navy on Friday, 27 June 2025, held a colourful farewell parade in honour of its outgoing Flag Officer Commanding (FOC), Rear Admiral Saheed Adeshina Akinwande.
The ceremony, which took place at the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) VICTORY Parade Ground in Calabar, Cross River State, drew dignitaries from within and outside the state, including senior naval officers, traditional rulers, and officials of sister security agencies.
Officers and ratings from various ships and units under the ENC formed the ceremonial parade, comprising a guard of honour, naval band, and four divisions—all arrayed in full regalia to pay tribute to the outgoing commander.
In his farewell address, Rear Admiral Akinwande commended the officers and men of the command for their professionalism, loyalty, and unwavering support throughout his tenure. He urged them to remain steadfast and extend the same commitment to his successor, Rear Admiral KC Ezete.
“I am deeply honoured to have served as the 41st Flag Officer Commanding Eastern Naval Command. Together, we achieved significant milestones that enhanced not just naval operations but also strengthened our relationship with host communities,” he said.
Rear Admiral Akinwande’s tour of duty was marked by strategic leadership and infrastructural transformation across the command. Under his watch, several impactful projects were executed, significantly improving the operational efficiency of the command and contributing to regional maritime security.
His tenure also saw greater civil-military cooperation, community outreach programmes, and a focus on enhancing the welfare of naval personnel.
Rear Admiral KC Ezete is expected to take over leadership of the ENC, ushering in a new chapter in the command’s history.
The event, rich in tradition and military pageantry, symbolised not only a change in leadership but also the Navy’s appreciation of meritorious service and continuity in command.
 of the Nigerian Navy on Friday, 27 June 2025, held a colourful farewell parade in honour of its outgoing Flag Officer Commanding (FOC), Rear Admiral Saheed Adeshina Akinwande.){kind=link}