The Nigerian Army College of Logistics and Management (NACOLM) proudly hosted a Shipping of Stripes ceremony on Tuesday, 29 April 2025 at the RC Duru Officer’s Mess Ojo, Lagos. The ceremony honored Commander Mabel Adiketu Itsabemor, a senior officer recently promoted to a higher rank of Navy Captain.
The event was presided over by the Special Guest of Honour (SGOH), Flag Officer Commanding Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral Mike Gregory Oamen. The event was hosted by the Commandant NACOLM, Major General Wisdom Benjamin Etuk, who assisted the FOC in decorating the officer with her new badge of rank. The ceremony reflected the Nigerian Navy’s (NN) commitment to recognizing excellence and encouraging professionalism among its personnel.
In his welcome remarks, the Deputy Commandant/Director of Studies NACOLM, Brigadier General JIB Manjang, stated that this Shipping of Stripes marks a significant achievement in the College, being the first of its kind involving a female Naval Directing Staff being striped. He highlighted that this milestone was made possible through the synergy between the NA and the NN, towards achieving their constitutional responsibilities within a joint environment. Brigadier General Manjang expressed gratitude to the Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla (Admiralty Medal), and the Navy Council for approving the promotion of the senior officer.
The Commandant NACOLM, Major General Etuk, welcomed the SGOH and appreciated his presence, alongside families, friends and naval colleagues of the promoted officer. He recognized Navy Captain Itsabemor’s past positions held, which were logistics appointments, and expressed his confidence in the officer’s ability to excel in her new roles and contribute positively to the NA, NN, and the nation. Major General Etuk reiterated that promotion is an acknowledgment of hard work and dedication and prayed that the College would witness numerous promotions this year. He charged the senior officer to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, leadership, and ethical conduct while serving in her new capacity. In concluding his remarks, the host commended the Deputy Commandant, faculty members, and staff for their good work and urged them to maintain the standard of the College despite challenges.
The SGOH celebrated the newly promoted officer, describing her as a very focused and determined officer. He advised her to prioritize the system in everything while expecting her to also think of the welfare of her subordinates and inspire them. Rear Admiral Oamen urged her to be extra committed and hardworking, believing in her capacity and potential to excel. The SGOH wished the promoted officer more grace, joy, happiness and more service to her fatherland.
In her response, Navy Captain Itsabemor thanked the CNS and Navy Board for recognizing and considering her worthy of the promotion. She reaffirmed her unwavering loyalty and promised to continue giving her best to the Armed Forces. Navy Captain Itsabemor recognized the FOC for taking time out of his tight schedule to honor her invitation. She also thanked Major General Etuk for his exemplary leadership and mentorship, which had been a source of inspiration for her achievements. Navy Captain Itsabemor assured all present of her commitment to meeting the expectations of her new roles and responsibilities.
Distinguished dignitaries present at the ceremony included the Commander Naval Medical Center Dockyard, Executive Officer NN Ship WEY, Commandant NN Secondary School Ogbomosho, Consultant Ophthalmologist Navy Reference Hospital Ojo, senior military officers within the Ojo general area and other invited guests. The occasion concluded with a refreshment session and group photographs.
Signed: Acting College Public Relations Officer
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