Naval Training cOMMAND

1. The NAVTRAC is solely responsible for the administration and supervision of NN training programmes and activities through all professional schools and colleges towards actualizing the NN’s constitutional mandate. Accordingly, the Command’s mission is “To provide initial, specialist, professional and bespoke training/education to NN, AFN and other Nigerian/international agencies’ personnel through collaboration with relevant stakeholders towards optimal NN performance”. This mission is pursued through 13 schools/colleges across Nigeria including Naval Wing at NDA and NNS PROSPERITY.

2. Pertinently, the Command has accomplished some achievements such as certification and accreditation of courses, acquisition of 50 hectares of land at Sango Ota amongst others. However, the Command is faced with some challenges that requires attention to enable the optimal realization of NN training objectives in fulfillment of the NN’s mandate. Prominent among these challenges are; the dearth of qualified instructors, the dearth of training aids and equipment as well as inadequate POL supply and accommodation infrastructure. Thus, this brief is prepared to intimate the CNS on the activities of the NAVTRAC as directed vide Ref A. To this end, the brief shall discuss current situation of NAVTRAC, future plans and critical challenges as well as 100 days achievements. Accordingly, the purpose of this brief is to highlight NAVTRAC activities for the CNS retreat.

AIM

3. The aim of this brief is to acquaint the CNS with the activities of NAVTRAC with a view to making recommendations.

CURRENT SITUATION OF NAVAL TRAINING COMMAND

4. The Command is structured into the HQ, schools/colleges as well as a training ship with the FOC as the chief accounting officer. Administratively, NAVTRAC has a staff strength of 3,607 comprising 381 officers and 3,226 ratings across the 13 schools/colleges and the HQ. Additionally, the Command has 3,994 UTOs/UTRs with a total of 150 courses effectively conducted in the training schools/colleges. The activities of individual schools/colleges and other units under NAVTRAC would be discussed in the succeeding paragraphs.

NIGERIAN NAVY SHIP QUORRA         

5. The mission of NNS QUORRA is to provide professional, specialist and bespoke operations training for the NN, AFN and other Nigerian/International agencies’ personnel through collaboration with relevant stakeholders towards optimal NN performance. Accordingly, the school offers training for officers and ratings in the core operations departments of the NN in its 9 schools. These schools are the Navigation and Direction School (NDS), Communication Information Technology School (CITS), Underwater Warfare School (UWWS), Ojo, Nigerian Navy School of Music (NNSM) Otta and the Physical Training and Sports School (PTSS). Others are Computer Training School (CTS), Nigerian Navy Chaplaincy School (Catholic), Nigerian Navy Chaplaincy School (Protestant) and the Naval Directorate of Islamic Affairs Training School (NDIATS). NNS QUORRA is capable of conducting up to 46 courses. The courses that are currently running in NNS QUORRA include OLC, STC, Nav-Yeoman, Third Rate and Second Rate Courses. Also, NNS QUORRA is administratively responsible for the conduct of Falcon Eye training.

6. NNSM currently trains only ratings while efforts are ongoing to develop curriculum for officers’ course in liaison with the Nigerian Army School of Music and Centre of Music Society of Nigeria. The NNSM has been able to produce Steel Pan bands and plans are ongoing for the school to commence full scale training of NN Personnel in the production of Steel Pan Bands for NHQ and other Commands in the NN. Furthermore, the remodeling of NNS QUORRA main gate has been completed alongside the former NOUN building which was commissioned for the use of UTOs. This would to a large extent ameliorate the accommodation issues faced by students in the school. Notwithstanding, some other buildings such as the old UTOs accommodation block, Training Block, UTR accommodations and Dining Hall require similar upgrade and renovation to address accommodation challenges for students. Recently, the old UTOs accommodation block was blown by rainstorm which underscore the need for upgrade and renovation works on the building.

NIGERIAN NAVAL COLLEGE

7. The mission of the Nigerian Naval College (NNC) is to provide initial/bespoke officer training for the NN, AFN and other Nigerian/ International agencies’ personnel through collaboration with relevant stakeholders towards optimal NN performance. Accordingly, NNC conducts Midshipman Phase 1 Training, DSSC Pre-Commissioning Training (PCT), SD PCT as well as Leadership and Management Course (LMC) for STC officers. The College also facilitates the Basic Security and Maritime Operations Course conducted by Deep Cover Guards Ltd, VBSS Course by BMATT and NDA Naval Cadets attachment. Additionally, the College conducts 3 weeks attachment training for cadets periodically tagged CAMP RUWAN YARO.
8. The College has one 50-seater Marco-Polo bus, 2 coaster buses, one Toyota Hilux and one Ford Ranger with a Toyota Prado SUV for Comdt official use. However, NNC still requires additional vehicles for the movement of officers, staff, instructors and UTOs/midshipmen/cadets during tours, visits and exercises. Additionally, a Shoreline Protection which includes reinforced concrete drainage at NNC Onne is completed about 2 years ago. Recently, some parts of the shorelines protection collapsed due to heavy rains. Hence, there is the need to repair the collapsed shorelines protection.

NIGERIAN NAVY BASIC TRAINING SCHOOL

9. The mission of Nigerian Navy Basic Training School (NNBTS) is to provide initial training to recruits in the NN, AFN and other Nigerian/ International agencies’ personnel through collaboration with relevant stakeholders towards optimal NN performance. Thus, the school trains selected able-bodied Nigerians to fill vacancies in the ratings cadre of the NN. About 1860 NNBTS Batch 34 intakes are currently on training in NNBTS and are expected to pass out on 2 Sep 23. The School also conducts Leadership and Management Course (LMC) for selected senior ratings. The LMC Programme is affiliated to the University of Port Harcourt for the award of Diploma Certificates, following an MoU between the School and University of Port Harcourt in January 2016.
10. The state of infrastructure and training activities in NNBTS are satisfactory. However, there are some constraints which if adequately addressed, would further enhance efficient training delivery. Notable among these constraints are; shortage of instructors, erratic power supply, shortage of motor vehicles, lack of slipway/davit and inadequate number of instructors’ accommodation. Others are inadequate arms for training and teaching aids as well as lack of dedicated parade ground, sports complex and auditorium.

NIGERIAN NAVY SCHOOL OF ARMAMENT TECHNOLOGY

11. The mission of Nigerian Navy School of Armament Technology (NNSAT) is to provide professional, specialist and bespoke AWW training for the NN, AFN and other Nigerian/International agencies’ personnel through collaboration with relevant stakeholders towards optimal NN performance. Accordingly, the School offers training in regimental duties and operations of naval guns and other weapons system. Some of the courses are Officers’ Long Course, Sub-Lieutenant Technical Course and Fire Control/Quarter Armourer Rate Courses.
12. In response to the security situations in the North Western part of the country and Kaduna State in particular, NNSAT has been involved in IS operations. Pertinently, the need to secure the school’s perimeter is of paramount importance.

NIGERIAN NAVAL ENGINEERING COLLEGE

13. The mission of Nigerian Naval Engineering College (NNEC) is to provide professional, specialist and bespoke technical training/education to NN, AFN and other Nigerian/ International agencies’ personnel through collaboration with stakeholders towards optimal NN performance. Thus, NNEC through its 7 schools provide NN personnel with requisite technical knowledge for the effective maintenance of platforms, equipment and weapons systems. The schools under NNEC are the Basic Engineering School (BES), Marine Engineering School (MES), Weapon Engineering School (WES), Air Engineering School (AES), and Nuclear Biological Chemical and Damage Control (NBCD) School. Others are Automobile Mechanic School (AMS) and Driving School. There are plans for the College to partner with the Nigerian Navy Admiralty University, Ibusa towards the upgrade and certification of its courses. Efforts are also ongoing to affiliate the NBCD School with Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA). It is pertinent to mention that the NNEC Jetty is in a state of disrepair and has affected the adjacent walls of the Engineering Laboratory Block resulting in major cracks.
14. Accordingly, it is requested that a structural integrity test and rehabilitation works be undertaken on the NNEC Jetty and Engineering Laboratory Block as soon as possible. Other critical infrastructure in the College that requires attention include renovation of Ogorode Barracks and complete perimeter fencing of the College.

NIGERIAN NAVY PROVOST AND REGULATING SCHOOL

15. The mission of Nigerian Navy Provost and Regulating School (NNPRS) is to provide professional, specialist and bespoke naval policing training/ education to NN, AFN, and other Nigerian/ international agencies personnel through collaboration with relevant stakeholders towards optimal NN performance. The School is responsible for the provision of Ab-initio and advance training for NN personnel in the provost and regulating department. In line with this, the School offers 7 courses, namely Officers’ Basic Provost Course, Basic Regulating Course, Master at Arms Refresher Course, Master-at-Arms Qualifying Course, Regulating Petty Officer Qualifying Course and Outrider Course. The School initiated discussions with University of Mkar Gboko, Benue State with a view to awarding UTRs Advanced and Post Graduate Diplomas in Security Management. A proposal in this regard has been forwarded to NHQ.
16. NNPRS is still at its temporary site which lacks facilities such as parade ground, auditorium and accommodation among others. This has limited the school’s plans to expand its training towards achieving its mission. To ameliorate this and considering the huge amounts paid on rents, NHQ recently bought some blocks of buildings to ease the accommodation problem of the school. Despite this, NNPRS is unable to initiate exchange programs or train personnel from sister Services and other security agencies. Accordingly, efforts are ongoing with the Benue State Government to provide a permanent site for NNPRS.

NIGERIAN NAVY HYDROGRAPHIC SCHOOL

17. The mission of Nigerian Navy Hydrographic School (NNHS) is to provide professional specialist and bespoke Hydro training/education to NN, AFN and other Nigerian/International Agencies’ personnel through collaboration with relevant stakeholders towards optimal NN performance. Currently, NNHS offers 4 courses namely, Basic Officers’ Hydrography Course, Survey Recorder I, II and III Courses. Efforts are ongoing to achieve the accreditation of these courses by the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) in line with International Standards. However, NHQ intervention would be needed in areas such as upgrade of the School structures/infrastructure and procurement of modern survey equipment and software such as; Multi-beam Echo Sounder, Differential Global Positioning System (DGPS), Side Scan Sonar, digital level and Total Station others are Sound Velocity Profiler (SVP), Automatic Tide Gauge (ATG) and Distance measuring gadgets to further improve the standard of training in the School.
18. The infrastructure upgrade/face lift and procurement of modern survey equipment for NNHS will therefore enhance the ongoing accreditation efforts. Furthermore, the School is exploring ways to conduct sub-specialization courses on Cartography, Geo-informatics, Tidal Prediction Analysis and Oceanography.

JOINT MARITIME SECURITY TRAINING CENTRE

19. The mission of the Joint Maritime Security Training Centre (JMSTC) is to provide maritime security training for the NN, AFN and other Nigerian/ International agencies’ personnel through collaboration with stakeholders towards improving maritime security in the Gulf of Guinea. Accordingly, JMSTC provides training to personnel of the AFN and other para-military organizations in littoral and riverine operations with the aim of enhancing the ability of the AFN to tackle security challenges in the maritime environment especially the Niger Delta up to the entire Gulf of Guinea (GoG). It is envisaged in future, that the JMSTC would be able to provide training for personnel from other friendly countries. The initial scope of the JMSTC, which was based on only tactical level training, has been expanded to encompass operational level training. The scope of training at the Centre has therefore, been improved upon to include training for organizations and agencies outside the military. Hence, the Centre conducts VBSS Course for Maritime Law Enforcement personnel of GoG countries.
20. Other courses run at the Centre include Boat Handling Operator Course, Tactical Riverine Operations Course, Tactical Boat Operations Course, Outboard Engine Maintenance Course, Small Boat Hull Maintenance Course and NOP Lake Chad Pre Deployment Training. Others are; Instructional Technique Course, Counter IED Course, Combat First Aid and CIMIC conducted in conjunction with BMATT. The Centre also trains DIA personnel on weapon handling and the Nigerian Police Force in Basic Maritime Operations Course.
21. It is worthy to state that JMSTC is faced with some challenges that requires attention towards achieving its mandate. The need for a more befitting administrative and accommodation block cannot be over emphasized due to its training of both local and international students. Other challenges include; inadequate vehicles particularly buses and Hilux, shortage of operational boats, dilapidated jetty and lack of boat shed amongst others.

NIGERIAN NAVY SPECIAL BOAT SERVICE         

22. For administrative and training purposes, the Nigerian Navy Special Boat Service (NNSBS) is under NAVTRAC while for operational activities it is under NHQ. Thus, the NNSBS mission is to provide special operations training for the NN, AFN and other Nigerian/International agencies’ personnel as well as conduct special operations through collaboration with relevant stakeholders towards optimal NN performance. Accordingly, NNSBS conducts specialized trainings in Counter-Terrorism and Counter-Insurgency Operations. Notable among the courses at NNSBS are the Basic Operation Capability (BOC) and Intermediate Operation Capability (IOC) Courses. Additionally, the NNSBS operatives participates in some exercises such as EX OBANGAME, FLINTLOCK which are multinational exercises that foster collaboration and partnership with sister agencies and friendly countries. Also, personnel of the NNSBS participate in some special operations at North East and North West. Furthermore, NNSBS has earned international repute as a Centre for Special Forces training and has trained personnel of sister Services and the Ghana Navy.
23. The SBS personnel requires constant training within and outside the country to be in top form and abreast with the dynamics of Asymmetric Warfare. The SBS Camp also requires more vehicles such as Hilux trucks and Coaster buses for SF driving training and movement during deployments respectively. Pertinently, the NNSBS permanent site is 80 per cent completed.

NIGERIAN NAVY LOGISTICS COLLEGE               

24. NNLC is the logistics arm of the defunct Nigerian Navy Finance and Logistics College (NNFLC) Owerrinta, moved to Dawakin Tofa, Kano. The mission of the College is to provide professional and bespoke logistics management training/education to the NN. AFN and other Nigerian/ International Agencies’ personnel through collaboration with relevant stakeholders towards optimal NN performance. Accordingly, the courses offered in NNLC include Long Logistics Management Course, Officer Basic Course, Sub Technical Course and host of other relevant courses.
25. Following the relocation of the College to Kano, massive infrastructural development and expansion of the scope of the College’s contribution to NN operational effectiveness continue to be recorded. It is hoped that in the near future, the College’s intake would include project personnel as well as personnel from sister Services, paramilitary organizations and general public, However, NNLC currently delivers logistics training for personnel of the NN only.

NIGERIAN NAVY COLLEGE OF ACCOUNTS AND FINANCE

26. The mission of Nigerian Navy College of Account and Finance (NNCAF) is to provide professional, specialist and bespoke accounting and secretariat duties training for the NN, AFN and other Nigerian/International agencies’ personnel through collaboration with relevant stakeholders towards optimal NN performance. Courses offered in the College include Basic A&B/Logistics Officers Course, Petty Officer, Leading and Basic Qualifying Courses for Writers. Others are SLt Technical Course (STC) and National Diploma (ND) in Accounting, Office Technology Management and Business Administration.
27. It is gratifying to note that the College has been granted accreditation to run National Diploma Programmes in Accountancy, Business Administration (BAM) and Office Technology and Management (OTM). Pertinently, the most recent approval was for the HND programmes in BAM and OTM received in Jan 23. Effort is presently ongoing to extend admission to sister Services and some paramilitary organizations.

NIGERIAN NAVY COLLEGE OF HEALTH SCIENCES

28. The mission of Nigerian Navy College of Health Sciences (NNCHS) is to provide initial, professional and bespoke medical training to NN, AFN and other Nigerian/International agencies’ personnel through collaboration with relevant stakeholders towards optimal NN performance. Accordingly, the College provides training in allied medical sciences including Basic Medical Qualifying Course (BMQC) and 7 professional courses. The professional courses are; the Medical Laboratory Technician, Pharmacy Technician, Physiotherapy Technician and Radiography Technician. Others are National Diplomas in Dental Therapy, Environmental Health, and Health Information Management (HIM). All the professional courses have been approved and accredited by their various Professional Boards including the Radiography Technician Course which was earlier affiliated to the River State College of Health Science and Technology (RSCHST), Port Harcourt. Additionally, the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) has accredited the College to award National Diplomas in Dental Therapy, Environmental Health and HIM. The College is also listed in the JAMB brochure.

29. The Command and NHQ has always supported the College, this has enabled the College to undertake some projects aimed at improving available facilities as well as providing a decent working/learning environment for the staff and students. These include upgrade of laboratories, creation of HIM computer room, conversion to Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA), and development of the College’s website. The College is, however, still burdened with few challenges such as lack of administrative block, auditorium, inadequate accommodation for students and rating instructors as well as lack of dedicated Basic Science Laboratory building.

NIGERIAN NAVY CENTRE FOR EDUCATION AND TRAINING TECHNOLOGY

30. The mission of Nigerian Navy Centre for Education and Training Technology (NNCETT) is to provide professional and bespoke instructional techniques and languages training for the NN, AFN and other Nigerian/international agencies’ personnel through collaboration with relevant stakeholders towards optimal NN performance. Thus, the Centre offers 22 courses. Some of the courses are; Basic Instructors’ Orientation Course, Basic Instructional Techniques Course, Instructional Techniques Qualifying Course, Archives and Records Management Course, Professional Instructional Techniques Officers Qualifying Course and Intensive Beginners Arabic, Chinese, French, Portuguese and Spanish Languages courses.
31. The Centre has moved to its permanent site at Ile Ife. This brought to the fore, the need to provide the Centre with requisite infrastructure to enhance her training mandate and function as a full military institution with necessary facilities for security. Thankfully, the NHQ has initiated a number of projects including accommodations and classrooms. Also, HQ NAVTRAC recently installed solar-powered streetlights in the premises of the Centre.

NIGERIAN DEFENCE ACADEMY NAVAL WING AND NNS PROSPERITY

32. NAVTRAC is administratively responsible for the NDA Naval Wing and Simulation Centre while most of her training is overseen by the NDA. Pertinently, HQ NAVTRAC facilitates some of the cadets’ training. Essentially, cadets undertake their attachment at NNC for Midshipman training as well as other Naval exercises and camps.

33. Nigerian Navy Ship PROSPERITY (NNS PROSPERITY) is a 65-metre ex-Irish Offshore Patrol Vessel (OPV), known previously as MV Emer. The Ship was acquired in 2015 and currently serves as the NN Training Ship. She is operationally under the FOC (W) and is deployed occasionally to complement patrol of the WNC AOR. The Ship has trained both officers and ratings of the NN. Though the ship undertakes Training Attachment of Long ND Course officers and NNEC Artificers. Similarly, NNS PROSPERITY offers Phase II Midshipmen Training, including boat handling for underway boarding with BMATT in conjunction with JMSTC.

NAVAL MEDICAL CENTRES

34. There are 2 Naval Medical Centres (NMC) under NAVTRAC. They include NMC Onne and Sapele. NMC Onne is co-located with the NNC and NNBTS Onne. The Centre is a 25-bedded medical facility, established as a sickbay under NNC in 1987 before it evolved into an autonomous Medical Centre. The clinical and diagonistics departments in NMC Onne include the pharmacy, medical laboratory, dental, physiotherapy and optometry among others. On the other hand, NMC Sapele is co-located with the NNEC and Sapele Logistics Depot within the Naval Base Sapele. The Centre is a 23-bedded medical facility, established as a sickbay under NNEC in 1985 before it evolved into an autonomous Medical Centre. The clinical and diagnostics departments in NMC Sapele include the pharmacy, medical laboratory, radiography, dental, physiotherapy and optometry among others. In 2022, NMC Sapale conducted medical rhapsodies in some communities within Delta State including Sapele and Jesse.

NAVTRAC ACHIEVEMENTS

35. The Command has recorded some achievements in her bid to actualizing CNS vision for the NN. These achievements are in training and infrastructural developments. The achievements will be discussed subsequently.

TRAINING

36. NAVTRAC has made modest progress in the attainment of some training objectives. The achievements are enumerated below:
37. Accreditation of courses in NNCHS, NNCAF, NNLC and NNEC.
38. Renewed collaboration with NDA and NIMASA.
39. Completion of the renovation of NNS QUORRA STC block.
40. Relocation of NNLC to Dawakin Tofa, Kano and NNCETT to Ile-Ife.
41. Acquisition of 50 Hectares of Land at Sango Ota. The Command has secured 50 hectares of land at Sango Ota for the relocation of NNSM Ota. This progress was made during the FOC maiden visit to the Traditional Ruler of Sango Ota. There is therefore the urgent need to commence development of the land to avoid any encroachment in future.
42. NIMASA Accreditation of Professional Courses at NNS QUORRA. Efforts were made to earn NIMASA accreditation of watch keeping and seafarers courses offered in NDS and CITS at NNS QUORRA and at NNEC. A committee has already been constituted in the Command to facilitate the requirement to fulfill the completion of the modalities for the final documentation of the accredited courses. The FOC was able to secure the approval of the DG/CEO NIMASA for the accreditation of the courses during his courtesy visit to the DG.
43. Relocation of the HQ NAVTRAC and NNC. The Rivers State Government has transferred Ambassador Nne Furo Kurubo Model Secondary School, Ebubu, Eleme LGA and Model Secondary School, Egberu, Oyigbo LGA to the NN. Accordingly, the Command was tasked to come up with the LOGREQ for a smooth renovation of the locations and the subsequent relocation of HQ NAVTRAC. A committee report in this regard has been forwarded to NHQ for necessary action.
44. Upgrade and Connection to National Electricity Grid at NNS QUORRA. In order to address the epileptic power supply to NNS QUORRA and HQ NAVTRAC, EKO Electric has completed the installation of a new transformer in NNS QOURRA with a prepaid meter attached to it. The new arrangement will improve the electricity supply to NNS QUORRA and HQ NAVTRAC. However, the prepaid meter attached to the transformer could increase the electricity bill of NNS QUORRA and HQ NAVTRAC leading to more financial implications for the NN. There is therefore the need for more funds be made available to the command to cover such increase in the electricity bill.

41. Curriculum and Instructional Design Review. Ongoing instructional design reviews are not limited to just extant programs in NN schools/colleges but expanding the courses offered with a view to tapping the full potentials of the schools.  For instance, JMSTC is working on offerings relevant to maritime security architecture at the strategic, operational and tactical levels. NNCETT has been directed to work out modalities to provide long distance studies for NN personnel and subsequently civilians. The intention is to replicate this across schools to contribute to national prosperity. While curricular review for schools/colleges is carried out periodically when required and in line with NN schedule of events. Notably, SDPCT curriculum was reviewed prior to commencement of training with a view to meeting current realities.
42. Quality Assurance (QA) Review. The quality of training in professional schools/colleges under NAVTRAC is of paramount importance to the NN. Based on this, HQ NAVTRAC is reviewing extant QA template. The CATO and OiC WPC are spearheading these reviews.
43. Production of Training Dockets. HQ NAVTRAC maintained central production of dockets through its WPC. Over 17,364 Dockets have been produced for schools/colleges under command within the period under review. Central production of dockets ensured that dockets are produced and issued to students.
44. File Management System. The HQ NAVTRAC file management system was designed to enhance IT penetration, knowledge management and ease of secretariat duties. This system was conceived and birthed under the supervision of the CCITO within the period under review. It is hoped that while the system is being used, there is room for necessary adjustments.
45. Draft NN Training Policy. Considering the centrality of training policies and the fact that 2010 training policy may lack requisite ingredients to guide contemporary training in the NN, HQ NAVTRAC embarked on a review of the NN Training Policy. The proposed training policy would be hinged on a Role Performance Statement Record (RPSR) which would identify jobs/roles as well as standards, conditions and other key attributes including training requirement and priority. The HQ NAVTRAC is of the opinion that RPSR being essentially a HR matter could best be generated by NAVSEC. With the RPSR, training policy could be designed to suit expected roles. As directed  by the CNS, the draft NNPT has been forwarded to the NHQ for more inputs prior to its discussion during the proposed NN training conference.
46. Other Training Achievements. Other achievements recorded in the area of training are as follows:
47. Sustenance of accreditation of all courses at NNCHS Offa and accreditation of 3 National Diploma programmes at NNCAF Owerrinta. The Command is currently pursuing accreditation for major courses conducted in schools and colleges under the Command.
48. Sustenance of practical professional sea training for trainees.
49. Successful conduct of all traditional/general and specialized courses including OLC, OAC, midshipmen as well as STC, Choke Point Management and Control Course, NOP Lake Chad PDT, Outboard Engine Course, among others.
50. Successful passing out/graduation of NNBTS trainees, STC, OLC and other UTP at schools/colleges under command.
51. Introduction of Event Planning and Project courses at NNLC.
52. Successful conduct of Presidential Concession Commission Course 2 (PCC).
53. Successful conduct of NAVTRAC Games 2023.

INFRASTRUCTURE

47. Renovation of Former NOUN Building in NNS QUORRA. Sequel to the ejection of NOUN from STC building in NNS QUORRA, HQ NAVTRAC proposed a plan for the building. Subsequently, NHQ approved the renovation of the building and same has been completed, commissioned and presently been used by UTOs. 

48. Installation of Streetlights in NNCETT Ile-Ife. HQ NAVTRAC installed solar streetlights at NNCETT permanent site in Ile-Ife. This is in support of NHQ’s efforts at infrastructural developments on the site. Additionally, the streetlights would boost the security situation of the Centre.

ONGOING AND APPROVED PROJECTS IN THE COMMAND

49. There are some ongoing projects for NN professional colleges/schools. Some of these projects are at NNLC, NNCHS, NNBTS, JMSTC, NNSAT, NNSBS and UWWS. The projects would be discussed subsequently.
50. Nigerian Navy Logistics College. In view of NNLC relocation to Dawakin Tofa, infrastructural development in its permanent site became necessary for the smooth take-off of the College. Accordingly, projects such as the construction of a perimeter fence, admin block, classrooms, roads and accommodation are ongoing in the College’s permanent site. 
51. Nigerian Navy Basic Training School. The Indoor Shooting Range at NNBTS is yet to be completed while the Standard Outdoor Shooting Range project, 1 X 100m                     and 3x 50m shooting ranges constructed by Deep Blue Projects is completed. NNBTS obstacle crossing has also been completed.
52. Joint Maritime Security Training Centre. The construction of detention quarters at JMSTC is a MOD project. The project is also abandoned and is at 45 per-cent completion.
53. Nigerian Navy School of Armament Technology. The ongoing projects at NNSAT Kachia include the construction of 1×12 rooms’ accommodation for junior rates, 1 x 16 self-contain accommodations for senior rates   and 1 x 10 accommodation for officers were completed. However, most of these projects have been commissioned.    
54. Nigerian Navy Special Boat Service. There are several projects ongoing at the NNSBS permanent site. These include the construction of security post, armoury, sickbay, administrative block, canteen, gym and trainee accommodation. The projects are awarded to Messrs Firm and Resolute Investment Ltd by NHQ and NNS WEY is the unit supervising the projects. The project is about 75 per cent completed. 
55. Under Water Warfare School. Ongoing projects at UWWS include construction of 24 x 1 self-contained ratings’ accommodation, renovation of students’ accommodation and renovation of diving wing among others.
56. Renovation of UTO Block at NNS QUORRA. The CNS approved renovation of the UTO’s block at NNS QUORRA which will enhance availability of residential accommodation for students. This will also increase the potentials of NNS QUORRA accreditation drive with regards to the portfolio requirements of the professional bodies in relation to accommodation for students.  Though the contractor is expected to be mobilized to site as soon as possible.  

FUTURE PLANS

57. In order to address some of the challenges militating against effective training, as well as add value to training in the NN, the Command has identified some future plans. These are further discussed below.

58. Mitigation of Instructors Shortfall. It would be necessary to mitigate instructors’ shortfall gap in order to enhance training. The employment of retired personnel as instructors has been one strategy aimed at mitigating the extant shortage of instructors in NN training institutions. A total of 522 instructors are currently required to meet the shortfall in NN Basic and Professional schools. Consequently, NHQ is requested to facilitate and approve the process leading to the engagement and re-engagement of some competent retired personnel as instructors. Furthermore, personnel in Education Department could be trained for deployment as instructors in professional schools.

59. Replacement of Defective/Obsolete Training Aids. There is the need to repair defective training aids as well as replace obsolete ones. Some of the defects on the training aids such as simulators are mechanical and software challenges. In the interim, the NN could consider liaising with Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) of the extant training aids for seamless renewal of software, and where necessary, purchase of newer versions of defective training aids. As a long-term plan, the NN could consider training her ICT personnel in the areas of developing training soft wares for simulation.
60. Secure Early Approval/Payment of LOGREQ for Courses. There is the need for early approval of LOGREQ before commencement of courses. This is to facilitate smooth discharge of scheduled training programs to UTPs. Pertinently, majority of the courses offered in schools/colleges under NAVTRAC are routine. Hence, budgets could be proposed ahead of commencement of such courses. Accordingly, LOGREQs could be issued as course commences. In case of discrepancies, amended LOGREQ could be forwarded for approval and payment. This would ensure that unavailability of LOGREQ does not hamper scheduled training program.
61. Reinstatement of regular POL Supply to NAVTRAC. Considering epileptic public power supply in the country, as well as the need to constantly run generator for training purposes, exemption of NN professional schools/colleges on POL supply embargo is imperative.  Alternatively, funds for purchase of POL could be provided to avoid shortchange of other training requirements for the purchase of POL.
62. Others. Other future plans aimed at upgrading the standard of training and sustaining the current momentum in NAVTRAC include:
63. Review/Drafting of new NN training policy
64. Relocation of HQ NAVTRAC to Port Harcourt.
65. Restoration of NAVTRAC e-library
66. Complete fencing of donated 50 acres of land at ota.
67. Hosting of Schools Governing Board meeting 2023.
68. Conduct of naval training conference in october 2023.
69. NIMASA accreditation of NN professional courses/STCW certification.
70. Connection and powering of NNS QUORRA 33/11 kva transformer to the national grid.
71. Relocation of NNPRS to permanent site.
72. Acquisition of training simulators for schools/colleges

CRITICAL CHALLENGES OF NAVAL TRAINING COMMAND

63. Despite the enumerated achievements, the Command is still faced with several challenges, which if mitigated, would further improve and upscale performance. The challenges are discussed below.
64. Dearth of Instructors. There is shortfall of instructors in schools/colleges under command. This is exacerbated by personnel appointment/draft cycle and platform expansion. A total of 522 instructors are currently required to meet the shortfall in NN Basic and Professional schools. Additionally, some schools/colleges lack the pre-requisite to generate pool of officers. NNCHS for instance does not run courses for officers. Hence, identifying suitably qualified officers as instructors is a bit cumbersome. This affects instructor availability in the College. There is therefore the need to mitigate instructor shortfall in schools/colleges under NAVTRAC.
65. Dearth of Training Aids and Equipment. Training aids are vital to the conduct of professional training in the NN as they facilitate better understanding of theoretical and classroom teachings/instructions. However, some of the training aids and equipment in some of the schools are inadequate, defective and/or obsolete. For instance, the Fleet Trainer, Radar Plotting Reporting Trainer, Voice Simulator, Fleet Work Trainer and Communication Equipment Operators Trainer (CEOT) amongst others, in NNS QUORRA are not functional. In the case of NNSM, some musical instruments are not available for training. Furthermore, NNHS lacks certain survey equipment and standard survey boats, which are requirements for accreditation by the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO). Consequently, there is the need to repair defective training aids and replace obsolete ones.

66. Late Approval/Payment of LOGREQ for Courses. Late approval/payment of LOGREQ for courses often affects the effective discharge of scheduled training programs to UTPs. For instance, LOGREQ for STC 29/22 was approved about 5 months into the course. Additionally, LOGREQ for Language courses at NNCETT is yet to be met, but the course is almost rounding up. There is the need for early approval of LOGREQ for courses to aid easy discharge of scheduled training programs.
67. Infrastructural Deficit. Infrastructural deficit at the HQ NAVTRAC and some of the schools require additional infrastructure to ensure effectiveness of training. The SR2 and SR3 courses for instance run alternately in NNHS, sharing the same classroom due to space limitations. Although a classroom was created for the SR1 course, there is no hostel accommodation for the UTRs. Similarly, there is gross inadequacy of accommodation for both officers and ratings serving in the School. It would therefore be necessary to construct a befitting hostel accommodation for NNHS. NNCETT recently relocated to Ile-Ife, Osun State and there is a plan to also relocate the CITS to same location. There is therefore, the need to develop more infrastructure in terms of classrooms, offices and accommodation for both staff and students at the new site at Ile-Ife. The request for an infrastructural development survey has been forwarded to NHQ.
68. Petroleum Oil and Lubricate Supply. It would be recalled that there is a recent NHQ Signal for units to purchase POL with the scarce resources given to professional schools. The schools need to ensure the provision of power supply for training including evening preps. Thus, there is need for constant running of generators. It thus becomes imperative to request NHQ to grant exemptions to NAVTRAC on POL Supply or provide funds as an alternative.

                               CHIEF OF THE NAVAL STAFF GOODWILL

69. During the CNS familiarization tour of NAVTRAC, there were some key challenges of the command that received the immediate attention. These key challenges include;
70. Directive to the CAB to promptly facilitate the immediate consideration and approval of the LOGREQ of professional colleges/schools under the Command.
71. Consideration of the upward review of instructors allowances amongst other incentives.
72. The support of schools/colleges with POL supply.
73. Provision of perimeter fencing for the recently acquired 50 hectares of land at Sango Ota.
74. Repair, procurement and upgrade of training aids in the Communication Information Technology and Navigation and Direction Schools.
75. Remodeling and renovation of the Base Officers Quarters and Students Ratings Accommodation.
76. Repairs and reactivation of the NNS QUORRA Swimming Pool.
77. upgrade of the simulators and possible relocation of the similators to training block.
78. Construction of NNS QUORRA Chapel.
79. Remodeling and renovation of NNS QOURRA administrative and training blocks.
80. Review of RCA and overhead for schools/colleges.
81. Consideration of Professional Schools/Colleges for the allocation of vehicles.

67. To further align the Command with the CNS performance target for the first 100 days, a summary of projects and action plan are outlined at the table below.

NAVAL TRAINING COMMAND PERFORMANCE TARGETS FOR CNS FIRST 100 DAYS IN OFFICE

CONCLUSION

68. NAVTRAC has a total strength of 3,607 personnel, 13 training institutions apart from NDA (NW), NNS PROSPERITY and 2 Medical Centres. Accordingly, the Command coordinates training activities as well as provides an ambient environment in schools/colleges to enhance the learning and working environment for personnel. Besides the successful conduct of courses, the Command has modest progress in the attainment of some objectives of the CNS-SD 2021–5. Prominent among the Command’s achievements is the relocation of NNLC and NNCETT to their respective permanent site. Other achievements are the accreditation of some courses and affiliation with relevant professional bodies, docket and curriculum review well as provision of infrastructural support among others.

69. Analysis of the measures put in place revealed that adequate implementation and fine-tuning of the strategies could lead to improvement in the KPIs if the challenges are addressed. In order to position the Command for higher performance, some future plans were highlighted for identified challenges. These include the need to mitigate instructor shortfall, repair/replace defective/obsolete training aids and early approval of LOGREQ for routine and non-routine courses among others.

RECOMMENDATIONS

70. It is recommended that NHQ should:

1. Reinstate regular supply of AGO to NAVTRAC schools/colleges.
2. Adopt proactive approach to the payment of LOGREQ for scheduled professional courses in schools/colleges.
3. Consider renovation of NNS QUORRA BOQ, UTRs accommodations and training block.
4. Endorse employment of lecturers for newly accredited HND in OTM and Business Management at NNCAF.

1. Initiate measures to pay off outstanding PHCN bills for HQ NAVTRAC and Naval Base Apapa.
2. Enforce policy for all education officers to have one sub-specialization.
3. Sustain current efforts at relocating HQ NAVTRAC and NNC to newly acquired model schools at Rivers State.
4. Conclude the review of the future status of NNEC.

PC NWATU

R Adm

Sep 23                                                                                                       FOC