The Nigerian Navy has promoted and decorated 19 Master Warrant Officers to the apex rank in the rating cadre of Naval Warrant Officers.

The ceremony, led by the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, represented by Rear Admiral JD Akpan, was held in Abuja, on Monday.

Rear Admiral Akpan who addressed the newly decorated officers, admonished them to uphold the principles of the Navy as they assume a higher role noting that promotions such as this come with greater tasks for accomplishment.

“You have played key roles before and now you have to play more important roles, we will not be tired of tasking you because to whom much is given much is expected.

“It is not a time to sleep or go to bed because you have a whole lot of responsibilities now. This is a very high leadership role, you should lead by example and also exhibit more dedication which is key in the discharge of your duty.

“You were selected for this elevation due to your good service which has brought you this far, remember many are looking up to you, please do not do anything that would make the Chief of Naval Staff and Naval authorities regret that they gave you this responsibility.

The rear admiral charged the officers to apply professionalism in the discharge of their duties.

He also acknowledged that the first few weeks of their newly assumed rank would be tasking and challenging but promised the officers that in no time, they would get acquainted with their roles.

Speaking on behalf of the newly decorated naval warrant officer, P.M Shishi expressed his gratitude to the Naval Force for the honour done to him and his colleagues.

He assured the naval authority that they would continue to show their loyalty and equally actualize the vision of the Chief of the Naval Staff.