The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has honoured 11 young patriots whose aspirations to serve Nigeria were tragically cut short on 23 July 1990 during a boat-handling training exercise at the then Nigerian Naval College waterfront.
Lieutenant General Shaibu also unveiled a cenotaph and laid wreaths in honour of the 11 Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) Naval Cadets of 41 Regular Course at the Nigerian Navy Basic Training School, Onne, Rivers State.
Stating that the cenotaph stands as an enduring tribute to the 11 young patriots, the COAS described the incident as one of the saddest chapters in the history of military training in Nigeria.
He recalled that 23 first-year NDA naval cadets were undergoing routine training when their boat collided with a stationary jetty and capsized, resulting in the loss of 11 promising officers-in-the-making.
According to a statement by the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Colonel Appolonia Anele, the Army Chief said the solemn ceremony underscored the enduring commitment of the Armed Forces of Nigeria to preserve the memory of personnel whose service and sacrifice continue to inspire national duty and strengthen the nation’s security institutions.
Addressing dignitaries, military personnel and families of the departed cadets, the COAS said he stood with profound reverence, deep humility and a solemn sense of duty to honour his course mates who paid the ultimate sacrifice during training at the then Nigerian Naval College, Onne.
He noted that the occasion reflected the Armed Forces’ enduring values of honour, courage, discipline and selfless service in defence of the nation.
Lieutenant General Shaibu stated that the cenotaph stands as an enduring tribute to 11 young patriots whose aspirations to serve Nigeria were tragically cut short on 23 July 1990 during a boat-handling training exercise at the College waterfront.
The COAS emphasised that remembrance is a strategic military tradition that reinforces esprit de corps, institutional continuity and the resolve of future generations of officers to serve with honour, courage and unwavering devotion to duty.
He commended the Nigerian Navy Basic Training School for its foresight and commitment in ensuring the realisation of the project, noting that the monument would continue to inspire young officers across the Armed Forces to place national interest above self in pursuit of Nigeria’s security objectives.
To the families of the departed cadets, Lieutenant General Shaibu assured them that the sacrifice of their loved ones would never be forgotten by the Armed Forces of Nigeria or by a grateful nation.
He stated that their names are permanently etched on the monument, in the nation’s military history and in the hearts of their course mates, adding that their legacy will continue to inspire generations of servicemen and women dedicated to safeguarding Nigeria’s peace, unity and sovereignty.
Earlier, the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, represented by Rear Admiral J. N. Mamman, stated that the cenotaph was solemnly dedicated in honour of the cadet officers who paid the supreme price in the line of training and service.
He noted that the memorial provides a special opportunity for remembrance and reflection on the cherished memories of their departed colleagues, and prayed for the peaceful repose of their souls.
Linus Aleke
