Nigerian Navy Strengthens Civil–Military Bonds With Ogun Community

In a deliberate effort to strengthen civil–military relations, the Nigerian Navy School of Music on Wednesday hosted youths from the Lemode Community Development Committee at its premises, in an engagement designed to foster trust and cooperation between the military and the civilian population.

The initiative, aligned with the civil–military cooperation drive under the leadership of the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, reflects a growing recognition within the armed forces that national security is reinforced not only through operations but also through meaningful connections with civilians, particularly the youth.

The visiting youths from Ifo Local Government Area of Ogun State were received with warmth and professionalism, as naval personnel ensured seamless coordination, adherence to security protocols, and a welcoming atmosphere.

Central to the engagement was a security orientation session aimed at deepening mutual understanding and encouraging intelligence sharing. This was complemented by cultural and social interactions that helped demystify military life, presenting naval personnel as partners in community development. The exercise underscored the Navy’s commitment to openness and sustained engagement with host communities.

Addressing participants, the Commanding Officer, Lieutenant Commander Adelaja Sanni, described the visit as a strategic platform for strengthening ties between the Navy and the civilian population. He emphasised that such initiatives help to build trust, promote unity, and foster a shared sense of responsibility for national development.

“The safety of our collective space relies on the information we share. Security awareness means making the youth our primary partners in intelligence. You understand your environment better than anyone, and we rely on your vigilance to keep our communities safe,” he said.

He commended the discipline and conduct of the participants, noting that while activities of the day may pass, the lessons on cooperation and security consciousness would endure.

Sanni also acknowledged the role of Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, Director of Naval Information, describing him as the key link that made the engagement possible. According to him, Folorunsho’s consistent drive for open communication, and strategic public engagement has been central to bridging the gap.

A highlight of the visit was a novelty football match between personnel of the Nigerian Navy School of Music and the visiting official football team, popularly known as Met Boys. The encounter was lively and competitive, ending 2–1 in favour of the community side. OSBD Hunsa MM scored for the Navy, while Abubakar Onifade netted a brace to secure victory for the visitors in a game defined by skill, energy, and sportsmanship. Officials, however, stressed that the significance of the event extended far beyond the scoreline.

Speaking on behalf of the visiting community, Lateef Owodunni expressed appreciation for the warm reception, noting that the initiative had significantly bridged the gap between the military and the youth.

“The security orientation was enlightening. We now understand that intelligence sharing is not about targeting our own people, but about protecting our communities from criminal elements. We are taking this message of vigilance and cooperation back home,” he said.

Owodunni commended the Nigerian Navy, led by Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, particularly Captain Folorunsho, for promoting a people-centred approach to security communication. He described him as instrumental in fostering inclusive engagement within the Nigerian Navy.

He also applauded the leadership of the institution under Lieutenant Commander Sanni, noting that the Commanding Officer demonstrated that lasting peace and mutual understanding are achievable through consultation, dialogue, and engagement rather than confrontation or exclusion.

The engagement was received by other top officers of the Nigerian Navy School of Music, including the Chief Instructor, Lieutenant Onaolapo Onabolu, senior departmental heads, and other key personnel of the establishment.