Onne: The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, unveiled a cenotaph at the Nigerian Navy Basic Training School (NNBTS) in honor of 11 naval cadets from the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) who died in a boat accident during a training exercise in 1990. The ceremony took place at Onne, Rivers, marking a solemn occasion to commemorate the cadets who belonged to the 41 Regular Course of the NDA, of which Shaibu is a member.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the boat accident occurred on July 23, 1990, during a boat handling exercise at the then Nigerian Naval College, Onne. Shaibu emphasized that the ceremony was organized to honor the memory and sacrifice of these young trainees. He described the cenotaph as a tribute to the 11 cadets whose military careers were tragically cut short.
Shaibu recounted the events of that day, explaining how the cadets’ boat collided with a stationary jetty and capsized, resulting in the loss of 11 lives. He noted that while the cadets did not fall on the battlefield, they made the ultimate sacrifice while preparing to defend Nigeria’s sovereignty. The cenotaph, he stated, symbolizes courage, selfless service, and unwavering commitment to duty.
The Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Adm. Idi Abbas, represented by Rear Adm. Jonathan Mamman, echoed these sentiments, stating that the monument was long overdue and a reaffirmation that the cadets’ sacrifice had not been forgotten. Abbas expressed sympathy to the families of the deceased cadets and acknowledged that their devotion remains part of the Navy’s proud heritage.
Abbas also highlighted the inherent risks in military training, noting that the tragedy has prompted the Navy to reflect and strengthen its training systems. He detailed ongoing efforts to enhance training doctrines, improve emergency response capabilities, and invest in the professional development of instructors. The goal, he said, is to ensure that personnel are physically fit, mentally resilient, and professionally competent.
The ceremony marked an enduring tribute to the fallen cadets, ensuring their legacy inspires future generations of military personnel. The nation, as reiterated by Shaibu, will not forget their sacrifice.