Australian Defence Force Delegation Visits Flag Officer Commanding Western Naval Command

Australian Defence Force Delegation Visits Flag Officer Commanding Western Naval Command

On Tuesday 18 March 2025, a delegation from the Australian Defense Force, led by the Director General of Platforms, Brigadier General Bassett paid a courtesy visit to Flag Officer Commanding Western Naval Command (FOC WEST), Rear Admiral MG Oamen, at the Headquarters Western Naval Command in Apapa, Lagos.

During the visit, Brigadier General Bassett informed FOC West that the delegation was in Nigeria to inspect Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) KADA, which is recognized as one of the best-designed Landing Ship Tanks (LST) in the world. He explained that the Australian Defense Force is currently undergoing reforms that include fleet renewal, and in their research, they identified NNS KADA as the top option for capability and requirements in modern naval operations.

In response, Rear Admiral MG Oamen welcomed the delegation and expressed appreciation for the Australian Defense Force’s interest in NNS KADA. He emphasized that the Nigerian Navy, being the largest in the Gulf of Guinea, requires a platform like KADA to project naval power and secure sea lanes to support thriving shipping activities. The FOC West conveyed the greetings of the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, to the Australian Defense Force delegation.

The visit concluded with a tour of NNS KADA, where the delegation was received by the Commanding Officer of the ship, Captain A. Zidon, who guided them around the vessel.