By Nkechi Eze
The Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, has underscored the need for a “whole-of-society” approach in addressing Nigeria’s security challenges, asserting that the fight against insurgency, terrorism, and other irregular threats cannot rely solely on military force.
He made this known during the commissioning ceremony of three newly constructed worship centres at Admiralty Estate, Navy Town, Asokoro, in Abuja, where he emphasized the significance of spiritual engagement in shaping the values and discipline of naval personnel and the broader society.
“While we continue to pursue military solutions to our security problems, we must also recognize the critical role that spiritual interventions play in building character, guiding conscience, and fostering peace. These places of worship are not just buildings; they are instruments for moral and ethical transformation,” Admiral Ogalla said.
The Naval Chief urged the leadership of the Imam and Chaplaincy departments to maximize the use of the newly completed facilities, stressing that their impact should be evident in the conduct and professionalism of Nigerian Navy personnel.
“Let us see a visible change in the character and discipline of our personnel, and let it be attributed to your efforts,” he charged, adding that any observations for improvement in the facilities should be brought to his attention for prompt action.
Speaking at the event, Commander Naval Unit, Commodore Oluseyi Oladipo, noted that the commissioning ceremony marked a significant milestone in the Navy’s commitment to the spiritual welfare of its personnel. He disclosed that the newly inaugurated worship centres include a Catholic Church (Corpus Christi), a Protestant Church (Church of Redemption), and a Central Mosque, all located within Navy Town, Asokoro.
“Previously, religious activities for naval personnel in the Abuja area were conducted in makeshift or borrowed spaces. Today, these edifices symbolize the Nigerian Navy’s dedication to the moral and spiritual fortification of its officers and families,” Oladipo stated.
He further explained that the worship centres are designed to serve personnel and residents of Admiralty Estate, Lakeview Estate, and surrounding communities, while also functioning as central religious centres for the Directorate of Navy Chaplain Services both Roman Catholic and Protestant wings as well as the Directorate of Islamic Affairs.
The Corpus Christi Catholic Church, constructed by Robel Fankot Nigeria Limited, a subsidiary of the AGR Group, commenced on 17 June 2019 and was completed in April 2025. It features a seating capacity of 1,000 worshippers, an upper gallery, three offices, and adjoining storage rooms.
The Church of Redemption for Protestant worshippers was built by Amber Grover Resources Nigeria, with construction starting on the same date and completed by 10 April 2025. It equally seats 1,000 worshippers and includes three administrative offices.
The Central Mosque, constructed by Bruce Services Nigeria Limited, another AGR Group member, was developed between April 2019 and April 2025. With a capacity for 1,200 worshippers across gender-segregated sections, the mosque also includes two ablution units (male and female), eight offices, and a pavilion equipped for the Islamic funeral rites of bathing the deceased before burial.
All three worship centres are fitted with essential infrastructure including parking lots, a dedicated transformer, and a centralized water system to support seamless operation.
Commodore Oladipo further revealed that the Chief of Naval Staff has approved round-robin installations of practical support items for the three worship centres, with installation works scheduled to commence the following week.
The commissioning event was graced by religious leaders, including Reverends and the Chief Imam, who commended the Nigerian Navy for prioritizing the moral and spiritual wellbeing of its personnel through infrastructural development.
