The Naval Institute of Technology (NIT) Ogorode, Sapele, a distinguished institution dedicated to fostering technical expertise within the Nigerian Navy, celebrated a milestone achievement with its maiden convocation and combined graduation ceremony. The event marked the culmination of rigorous training programs for 88 military officers, equipping them with specialized skills in crucial areas such as marine engineering, weapon electrical engineering, and automobile engineering. This graduating cohort comprises 46 marine engineers, 27 weapon electrical engineers, and 15 automobile engineers, poised to contribute significantly to the Navy’s operational capabilities. The ceremony was a testament to the institute’s commitment to human capacity development and its alignment with the broader naval strategy of embracing technological advancements.
The convocation was graced by high-ranking naval officers and dignitaries, underscoring the importance of the occasion. Rear Admiral Istifanus Abara, the Flag Officer Commanding Naval Training Command, represented by Rear Admiral Baratuaipri Iyalla, the Chief of Naval Engineering, delivered a compelling address, commending the NIT’s role in producing skilled technologists. He emphasized the Navy’s increasing reliance on advanced platforms and systems, highlighting the graduates’ future responsibilities in managing and maintaining these critical assets for effective maritime operations. Admiral Iyalla further lauded the visionary leadership of the Chief of Naval Staff, Rear Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, in driving technological advancements within the Navy, particularly in areas such as drone technology, aircraft systems, and maritime domain awareness platforms. These technological advancements are crucial for safeguarding Nigeria’s vital oil and gas resources, bolstering national security.
The NIT’s journey has been one of remarkable transformation. Established initially in 1982 as the Nigerian Navy Technical Training Centre, its focus was primarily on “Artificer-styled” training geared towards ship maintenance. Over the years, the institute has evolved into a recognized center of excellence, achieving accreditation from the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE). This accreditation validates the quality and relevance of its academic programs. Today, the NIT offers a range of National Diploma and Higher National Diploma programs, spanning diverse engineering disciplines including marine engineering, electrical/electronic engineering, electronics, telecommunications, power, and machines. This diversified curriculum reflects the institute’s commitment to providing comprehensive technical education to naval personnel.
Rear Admiral Sunday Oyegade, Commandant of the NIT, reiterated the institute’s unwavering dedication to upholding global standards in technical education. He emphasized the NBTE accreditation as a testament to the robustness of the curriculum, which seamlessly integrates theoretical knowledge with practical expertise. This approach ensures that graduates are well-prepared not only for successful naval careers but also for opportunities beyond the military. Addressing the graduating officers, Commandant Oyegade urged them to embody the values of excellence and service, emphasizing that their graduation marks a new chapter filled with opportunities to contribute meaningfully to the Navy and the nation. He encouraged them to apply the knowledge and skills acquired at the NIT to make a tangible impact in their respective fields.
Looking ahead, Commandant Oyegade articulated an ambitious vision for the NIT’s future, outlining plans to transform it into a full-fledged polytechnic open to civilian enrollment. This strategic expansion aligns with the Navy’s overarching goal of promoting excellence and innovation in technical education. The Commandant highlighted potential collaborations with organizations such as the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) to support this transformative initiative. This expansion would not only broaden the institute’s reach but also foster greater interaction between military and civilian technical communities, creating a synergistic environment for knowledge sharing and technological advancement.
The convocation’s keynote address, delivered by retired Commodore Uba Ajala, focused on the transformative potential of emerging technologies in contemporary naval operations. His address, themed “Harnessing Emerging Technologies for Contemporary Nigerian Navy Operations: The Role of Naval Engineering,” emphasized the critical role of artificial intelligence and innovation in enhancing maritime security. He urged the graduating officers to embrace a mindset of continuous learning and adaptability, recognizing the rapid pace of technological change. Commodore Ajala underscored the importance of remaining forward-thinking and proactive in leveraging emerging technologies to address evolving challenges in the maritime domain. The ceremony also acknowledged the invaluable contributions of industry partners, such as Life Flour Mills and Sapele Power Plant Plc, for their support in creating a conducive environment for learning and research. The presence of distinguished guests, including His Royal Majesty, the Orodje of Okpe Kingdom, Major Gen. Felix Mujakperuo, and representatives from the NBTE, Admiralty University of Nigeria, and various polytechnics, further highlighted the significance of the occasion and the NIT’s growing stature as a center of technical excellence.
