Naval Institute Of Technology Sapele Holds Maiden Convocation Ceremony

Naval Institute Of Technology Sapele Holds Maiden Convocation Ceremony

The Naval Institute of Technology (NIT), Sapele, held its maiden convocation and combined graduation ceremony on 6 December 2024, marking a significant milestone in its evolution from the erstwhile Nigerian Naval Engineering College into a naval research institute. The event attracted an esteemed audience of senior naval officers, military and academic dignitaries, industry leaders, and proud families. A total of 88 graduates were conferred Higher National Diplomas in Marine Engineering Technology, Electrical and Electronic Engineering Technology, and Automobile Engineering Technology, while 28 officers graduated from the Engineering Officers Application Course.

Rear Admiral B Iyalla, Chief of Naval Engineering, who represented the Chief of the Naval Staff as the Special Guest of Honour, emphasised the critical roles the graduating officers and ratings are expected to play in enhancing national security and contributing to the Navy’s mission. He urged them to uphold professionalism, integrity, and teamwork as they apply their technical expertise to address challenges within the Navy and beyond.

The event featured a convocation lecture titled, “Harnessing Emerging Technologies for Contemporary Nigerian Navy Operations: The Role of Naval Engineering Branch”, delivered by Commodore Uba Basil Ajala (Rtd). The Guest Speaker highlighted the transformative role of emerging technologies in naval operations and called for proactive approaches to maintenance and capacity building.

Special guests and dignitaries offered goodwill messages to the Institute on this historic event. Specifically, His Royal Highness, the Orodje of Okpe Kingdom, Maj Gen F Mujakperuo (rtd) lauded the Institute’s achievements and pledged continued support for its growth.

The NIT Commandant, Rear Admiral Sunday John Oyegade, expressed gratitude to Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, the Chief of the Naval Staff, for his steadfast support in providing resources that have bolstered the institute’s training capabilities. He reaffirmed the NIT’s commitment to producing highly skilled engineers, technologists, and craftsmen to meet the Navy’s technical needs, with ongoing plans to upgrade the institute to polytechnic status.