The Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS) Rear Admiral Issah Adam Yakubu has commissioned a state-of-the-art Mess and a Transit quarters for Senior Rates, marking a milestone in the Ghana Navy’s commitment to providing a supportive and comfortable environment for its personnel.
The commissioning ceremony, held on Thursday 28 March 2024 at the forecourt of the 61-unit transit quarters, near Ghana Navy at 50, was a momentous occasion filled with pride and excitement as the CNS, alongside Former Chiefs of Naval Staff and Senior Officers, unveiled the newly constructed transit quarters and mess facilities.
The CNS in his remarks said, that Senior Rates play a pivotal role in the operations of the Ghana Navy, acting as the backbone. He indicated that, a mess stands as a symbol of comradeship, discipline and fraternity, and not merely a place to dine, wine and rest. “It is a haven where bonds are forged, stories are shared and the spirit of service is perpetuated.” He stated.
According to Rear Admiral Yakubu, the newly constructed Mess represents the Ghana Navy’s commitment to nurturing an environment that supports and uplifts Senior Rates. He commended all Senior Rates, adding that the construction of the two facilities spoke volumes about the Ghana Navy’s dedication to their well-being.
The CNS expressed his heartfelt appreciation to Messrs Supremo Construction Limited, engineers and architects who meticulously designed the project. He also thanked the technical staff at the Naval Headquarters who contributed their expertise and time to make the project a success.
The transit quarters building was named after Master Chief Petty Officer (MCPO) Riby-Williams of blessed memory. He was one of the most celebrated Senior Rates and the first Master Coxswain in the history of the Ghana Navy. The CNS eulogized the former MCPO, describing him as an embodiment of loyalty, professionalism and discipline.
A spokesperson for the family of the late MCPO and a Former Chief of the Naval Staff, Rear Admiral Sampa Nuno thanked the CNS and the Ghana Navy for honouring their late brother.
The newly constructed Mess facility consist of spacious ante-room, dining room, store rooms and an office for the Mess Manager. It also includes a spacious car park, front porch, dance floor and band stand. The transit quarters also consist of living spaces equipped with a range of amenities to ensure that personnel have a comfortable and restful stay during transit periods.
Present at the ceremony were, Former CNS, Rear Admiral Ohene Kwapong (Rtd), Former CNS, Rear Admiral Geoffrey Mawuli Biekro (Rtd), Former Commandant, Military Academy and Training Schools, Rear Admiral Muniru Tahiru (Rtd), Commandant TRADOC, Rear Admiral Eric Adu, Deputy Chief of Staff in charge of Logistics, Rear Admiral Agyenim Boateng, Flag Officer Commanding, Western Naval Command, Commodore Emmanuel Ayesu Kwafo, Chief Staff Officer at the Naval Headquarters, Commodore Prosper Mensah Modey, Flag Officer Fleet, Commodore Samuel Ayelazono and Members of ARNO, NAWA and ENRA.
