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From 15 – 17 Oct 24, the Units in Eastern Naval Command within Calabar area of the Nigerian Navy conducted a 3-day Small Arms Firing Exercise (SAFEX) at the Nigerian Police Shooting Range, in Asabanka Community, Akpabuyo Cross River State. The SAFEX commenced with an address by the Flag Officer Commanding (FOC), Eastern Naval Command (ENC), Rear Admiral SA Akinwande, at the NNS VICTORY parade ground. During the address, the FOC emphasized the strategic importance of the exercise in enhancing the combat readiness of naval personnel.
The 3-day SAFEX involved full-scale live-fire drills, with active participation from all Units in the Calabar area. Gunnery instructors from the Nigerian Army 13 Brigade, Calabar were also co-opted to provide expert support and assist own naval gunnery team. On each day, the Exercise commenced with safety brief and weapon handling instructions. The range classification involved firing several weapons at various distances; 200m, 100m and 50m on prone, kneeling and standing positions respectively. Each participant had the opportunity to fire live rounds at fixed standing targets and a record of shots on target were collated accordingly. Highlights of the SAFEX was the participation of NYSC and journalists, who were given the opportunity to handle and fire rifles for the first time.
At the end of the firing exercise, empty rounds were retrieved from the range site and all participants were cautioned and searched in line with military traditions. Media briefing was also conducted by the CSO ENC and Commander NNS VICTORY at the end of the activity. During the press briefing, the Senior Officers emphasized the commitment of the NN to enhancing the professionalism and mission readiness of her personnel for combating emerging security threats in the Country.
The exercise was concluded successfully and it achieved its primary objectives of improving small arms proficiency among naval personnel, reinforcing joint-service cooperation, and enhancing overall operational readiness.
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