Nigerian Navy Celebrates 70th Anniversary with Volleyball Match at FOB Escravos to Promote Fitness

Sylvester Idowu in Warri

To mark the 70th anniversary of the Nigerian Navy, the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Escravos staged a novelty volleyball match between officers and ratings to promote fitness.

The event was held on the Chevron Nigeria Limited (CNL) volleyball court and was attended by officers, ratings, civilians and invited guests.

Commanding Officer of FOB Escravos, Navy Captain Arinzechukwu Kenneth Egwuatuonwu, declared the match open and explained that it was intended to encourage physical fitness, teamwork and healthy competition among personnel.

He said the match was one of several activities planned for the Navy’s 70th‑anniversary celebrations.

“This novelty match between officers and ratings is part of the activities we put in place to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the Nigerian Navy. The essence is to encourage physical fitness, team work and healthy competition amongst personnel,” Egwuatuonwu said.

After the players were introduced, the commanding officer performed a ceremonial serve to open the event, with professional CNL umpires officiating.

At the conclusion of the match, the ratings defeated the officers and were awarded medals and a trophy.

In his closing remarks, Egwuatuonwu praised the participants for their sportsmanship and teamwork. He urged personnel to remain disciplined, dedicated and professional in their duties and to take sports seriously to stay fit and healthy.