By Abdul Lauya
The Federal Government has raised alarm over the growing number of voluntary retirements in the Nigerian Navy.
The Director of Navy Affairs at the Ministry of Defence, Mr. Joel Adeoye, voiced the concern during a familiarization visit to the Eastern Naval Command in Calabar on Wednesday.
He said poor welfare conditions, including inadequate housing, weak transport support, and limited healthcare, were pushing many officers and ratings to quit service early.
Adeoye also noted that insufficient operational equipment and budget constraints were hurting morale and weakening the Navy’s ability to keep personnel committed.
Observers link the trend partly to higher education levels among naval personnel, many of whom have obtained university degrees, master’s, and even PhDs.
With these qualifications, more sailors now seek better-paying and dignified jobs outside the service.
While commending the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, for ongoing infrastructure projects, Adeoye assured that the Defence Ministry would continue to support the Navy in critical areas.
In response, the Flag Officer Commanding Eastern Naval Command, Rear Admiral Kennedy Chukwuemeka Ezete, welcomed the observations and pledged close collaboration with the ministry to address the challenges.
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