NNMS urges graduates to embrace discipline, diligence

Etim Ekpimah

Graduating sailors at the Nigerian Navy Military School (NNMS), Ikot Ntuen, were urged to make discipline and hard work the cornerstones of their future endeavours at the institution’s 4th speech and prize‑giving day.

Rear Admiral Jonathan Mamman, Chairman of the school’s Governing Board and special guest of honour, told the cadets that their graduation should be seen as the key to unlocking their potential. He warned that academic qualifications might open doors, but it is good character that keeps one in the room.

Rear Admiral Mamman praised the cadets’ commitment, dedication and academic excellence, describing the ceremony as “a testament to your unrelenting pursuit of knowledge and your unwavering determination to succeed.” He encouraged them to persist in learning, to work hard and to maintain a positive attitude, saying that with determination “anything is possible.”

The commandant of NNMS, Navy Captain Akinlolu Akinyinka, described the prize‑giving as a tribute to excellence and a celebration of the school’s enduring commitment to discipline and growth. He said the young sailors had undergone six years of rigorous academic, military and moral training designed to sustain them in future endeavours.

Captain Akinyinka revealed that the school achieved a 100 per cent pass rate in the 2025/2026 West African Senior School Certificate Examination. He added that in the 2026 Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) results, 57 of the 69 graduating sailors scored above 290, with a top score of 346.

“Beyond the grades and scores lies something far more important: the character they have built,” the commandant said.

“These young sailors have been formed by the fires of structure and strengthened by the virtues of service, respect and resilience. They have learned that excellence is not a one‑time achievement but a daily habit.”

Guest lecturer Professor Imaobong Akpan of the University of Uyo, speaking on ‘From the Parade Ground to the Wider World: Preparing for Leadership, Building Character and Serving the Motherland’, urged the graduates to remain punctual, disciplined and service‑minded as they move into the wider world. “Maintain your character, discipline and sense of service as you leave this school,” she said.

The ceremony’s highlight was the presentation of awards to outstanding performers across academic, drill and co‑curricular categories. Parents, instructors and guests applauded the prize winners, and the day closed with a vote of thanks from the Parent‑Teacher Association and a reception where mentors offered guidance on further education and career pathways.