House Committee Lauds Western Naval Command, Dockyard Facilities
The Chairman of the House Committee on the Nigerian Navy, Mr. Yusuf Gadgi, has commended the state of facilities at the Western Naval Command and Naval Dockyard, Lagos, describing them as impressive and well-maintained.
Gadgi, who represents the Pankshin/Kanke/Kanam Federal Constituency of Plateau State, made these remarks on Friday during the committee’s oversight visit to the Western Naval Command and its associated formations.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the committee inspected key units under the command, including the Naval Air Base and Nigerian Navy Reference Hospital in Ojo, the Special Boat Service (SBS) camp, and the Naval Dockyard on Victoria Island.
According to Gadgi, the purpose of the visit was to assess the implementation of projects funded by the Appropriation Act, federal government interventions, and support from agencies like the NNPC and World Bank.
“We are here to inspect facilities, evaluate the Navy’s use of taxpayers’ money, and ask necessary questions while offering recommendations,” Gadgi stated.
While expressing mixed reactions to the inspections, Gadgi highlighted areas where the Navy had excelled and noted challenges that required further attention.
“We have seen projects completed to high standards despite existing challenges. However, the Navy needs more support from the National Assembly and the federal government to effectively discharge its responsibilities,” he said.
The chairman praised the Naval Dockyard’s advancements, including its fully operational chemical, electrical, and mechanical laboratories. He attributed these achievements to responsible leadership and effective budgetary support.
“The transformation of the Dockyard over the last six years is commendable. Every unit is functional, which reflects the leadership’s commitment. Such dedication should be supported, not hindered,” Gadgi said.
However, he stressed that a comprehensive evaluation of the Navy’s performance could only be made after similar visits to other commands, including the Central and Eastern Naval Commands, as well as the Logistics Command.
Gadgi assured continued support from the committee to sustain and enhance the Navy’s innovation and infrastructure development across all formations.
The visit underscores the House of Representatives’ commitment to ensuring accountability and efficiency in the operations of Nigeria’s naval forces.
