The Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, on Thursday, paid a condolence visit to the family of the late Lieutenant Commander Gideon Yashim Gwaza, who tragically lost his life on July 30 while leading a rescue mission.
Lieutenant Commander Gwaza died in the line of duty while attempting to rescue 59 individuals from a dredging vessel, MV AMBIKA 4, at the Okpobo River entrance.
His heroic actions and ultimate sacrifice were acknowledged during the visit, as Vice Admiral Ogalla conveyed his condolences to the widow and children of the late officer.
Addressing the grieving family, Vice Admiral Ogalla urged them to take heart despite the irreplaceable loss of their breadwinner.
He assured them that the Nigerian Navy would not forget Lieutenant Commander Gwaza’s selfless sacrifice and that they would continue to support the family in every possible way.
The Director of Naval Information, Commodore Aiwuyor Adams-Aliu, in a statement, described the visit as both solemn and encouraging for the family.
“Lieutenant Commander Gwaza was more than just an officer; he was a hero who placed the safety of others above his own,” Commodore Adams-Aliu stated.
He added: “His actions on that fateful day exemplify the highest ideals of the Nigerian Navy, and his legacy will continue to inspire us all.”
Vice Admiral Ogalla was accompanied on the visit by several senior officers, including the Chief of Administration, Rear Admiral Kennedy Ezete, the Director of Veteran Affairs, Rear Admiral MY Dahiru, and the Commander of the Naval Unit, Commodore ST Lengaya.
