By Kingsley Agim
The Nigerian Navy Secondary School (NNSS), Calabar, last weekend celebrated its 20th anniversary and the passing-out parade of the Class of 2026, with the Commandant, Navy Captain Muhammad Nura Dahalatu, charging the graduating students to uphold discipline, integrity and patriotism as they advance to higher institutions and other pursuits.
Speaking with journalists during the 2026 Passing-Out Parade and Graduation Ceremony in Calabar, Dahalatu described the occasion as a historic milestone, marking two decades of the school’s commitment to academic excellence and character development.
He said the impressive parade displayed by the graduating students, coupled with their academic accomplishments, reflected six years of dedication, resilience and military discipline.
“Our mission has always been to produce young men and women who are academically excellent, morally upright, physically fit and committed to national service,” he said.
The Commandant noted that the school was established to provide world-class education anchored on discipline, patriotism and excellence, adding that it has since produced thousands of alumni who are making meaningful contributions in various professions both within and outside Nigeria.
“Twenty years later, that vision has blossomed into a legacy of outstanding academic performance, exemplary character formation and remarkable achievements by our alumni,” Dahalatu stated.
He paid tribute to the leadership of the Nigerian Navy, past Commandants, teachers, instructors, administrative staff and parents for their dedication and sacrifices in building what he described as “a remarkable journey of excellence.”
The pioneer Commandant of the school, retired Commodore Amatre Kpou, who served as the Special Guest of Honour, was specially recognised for laying the foundation upon which the institution has grown over the past two decades.
Advising the graduating students, Dahalatu reminded them that lasting success belongs to those who remain focused, disciplined and committed to excellence.
“As you march out of these gates, remember that the values of discipline, integrity, responsibility, courage and patriotism must remain your lifelong companions. Be worthy ambassadors of this great institution wherever life takes you,” he charged.
The Commandant also expressed appreciation to the Chief of the Naval Staff, Naval Headquarters and the Eastern Naval Command for their unwavering support to the school. He equally thanked the Government of Cross River State and the people of Akpabuyo Community for their sustained hospitality and partnership over the years.
The ceremony featured a colourful ceremonial parade by the graduating students, presentation of awards to outstanding cadets and anniversary activities commemorating the school’s 20 years of existence.
In what marked his final official assignment as Commandant of the Nigerian Navy Secondary School, Calabar, Navy Captain Dahalatu congratulated the graduating Class of 2026 and charged them to uphold the values of honour, discipline and excellence as they embark on the next phase of their lives.
