The Nigerian Navy Forward Operating Base (FOB) Badagry on Tuesday organised a special outreach for Hephzibah Homes in Ibereko, Badagry, as part of activities marking the 70th anniversary of the Nigerian Navy.
Speaking at the event, the Commanding Officer of FOB Badagry, Navy Capt. Sa’id Kabir, said the initiative demonstrated the Navy’s commitment to humanitarian service and corporate social responsibility.
Kabir noted that the Nigerian Navy’s 70th anniversary should not only celebrate operational successes but also be marked with host communities.
He added that there was no better way to bring smiles to children in the host community than through such humanitarian gestures, especially with Children’s Day around the corner.
“In line with the Nigerian Navy’s dedication to protecting lives and property as well as strengthening civil-military cooperation, this outreach programme aims to bring relief and support to orphanage homes,” he said.
“This support is meant to give them hope for a brighter future and to remind them that their present circumstances do not define their tomorrow. Every child deserves to grow up in an environment where they feel loved, protected, educated, and empowered to dream without limits.”
Kabir stated that items distributed to the children included rechargeable lights, pens, school bags, pencils, water bottles, notebooks, and customised back-to-school packs.
He emphasised that Nigeria’s future depends largely on the well-being of its children and young people.
“The more a child’s well-being is ensured through appropriate support systems, the more confident we can be about future generations. A child who grows up in a supportive and secure environment is more likely to cope well as an adult, advance their standard of living, and care for the older generation,” he said.
Kabir reiterated that the Nigerian Navy remains committed not only to safeguarding the nation’s maritime environment and national assets, but also to contributing meaningfully to the welfare, peace, and development of Nigerians.
He reassured residents of the Navy’s continued support for the growth, progress, and well-being of the community.
Also speaking, Mrs Chinyere Okafor, Head of Caregivers at Hephzibah Homes, who represented the Director, Mrs Konsit Eka, expressed profound appreciation to FOB Badagry for the initiative.
She noted that some children in the homes were abandoned while others were brought in by social workers.
Okafor promised that the children would make good use of all the items received.
Teachers received rechargeable lights and flasks, while the children got customised school bags containing exercise books, pencils, and biros.
