By Danmaryam Zayamu
As part of activities to mark its 64th anniversary, the Nigerian Navy (NN) has distributed palliatives to vulnerable residents of Jiwa and Kuje communities in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Speaking while distributing the palliatives, the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral, Ibok-Ete Ibas, noted that the Nigerian Navy week was always an opportunity for introspection and reflection, but regretted that due to the COVID-19 pandemic, merriment which was always an aspect of the week would be lacking this time.
“Today rounds up the low keyed activities of the 64th anniversary of the NN which started last week with distribution of palliatives and commissioning of projects by the Commands.
“In general, the NN week serves as an opportunity for introspection and reflection as well as merriment which will be lacking this year due to the prevailing COVID 19 Pandemic.
“In rounding off the 2020 NN Week, the NN was expected to observe one of its major tradition which is the conduct of medical outreach in communities that host NN formations and establishments.
“However, due to the prevailing public health environment, arising from the occurrences of the COVID 19 pandemic, this effort could be quite challenging within the extant framework to curb the virus spread,” he said.
He reiterated that the distribution of the palliative to members of the public in host communities within the FCT underscored the commitment of the NN to its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), as well as support to the efforts of the President Muhammadu Buhari-led Federal Government in mitigating the impact of the pandemic on the less privileged citizens.
The Chief of Naval Staff, therefore, reiterated his commitment towards sustaining cordial relationships with host communities.
He applauded, what he described as the “warm and cordial relationship between the NN and the Kuje and Jiwa Communities.
“It is our fervent hope that this relationship will continue to deepen progressively for improved national security.”