Vice Admiral Issah Adam Yakubu has handed over command of the Ghana Navy to Commodore Godwin Livinus Bessing. The colourful handing/taking over and pulling out ceremony took place at the Naval Headquarters, Burma Camp on Friday 21 March 2025.
The Admiral, in his farewell address, reminisced on his 37-year career expressing gratitude to the Almighty Allah for protection, guidance, and triumph throughout his period of office.
He outlined some significant achievements during his tenure including the modernization, enlargement, and development of the fleet, as well as enhanced facilities for training in the Navy.
The outgone Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS) emphasized Ghana Navy's trilateral agreement with the United States of America and Denmark, which has resulted in significant investments that have improved its ability to handle maritime threats in the Gulf of Guinea.
He thanked the government of Ghana for the confidence reposed in him to lead the Ghana Navy for the past four years. He further expressed his appreciation to the Military High Command and the entire personnel of the Ghana Navy for their support.
“To the men and women of the Ghana Navy, remain steadfast. Remember that the strength of our Navy lies not only in our ship or weapons but in discipline, unity and loyalty of each one of you. Ghana depends on you-remain the guardians of our sea,” he said, advising them to cooperate and work efficiently with the new CNS. 
The Acting CNS, Commodore Bessing expressed gratitude to his predecessor, pledging to expand on current naval projects and keep working to improve the capabilities of the Ghana Navy, stressing that the waterways will not be secure for criminals who operate at sea through illicit means.
The event was climaxed with the handing over of the symbolic Helm to Commodore Bessing which signifies authority and ultimate command and responsibilities of the Ghana Navy.
The United States Ambassador to Ghana, Her Excellency Virginia Evelyn Palmer, Chief Director of the Ministry of Defence who represented the Minister for Defence, Members of Parliament, Chief of the Defence Staff, the Chief of Army Staff, Chief of Staff at the General Headquarters, Ambassadors, Former Service Chiefs, Senior Officers both serving and retired were present.
Others were high-profile delegations from key institutions, Heads of Sister Security services, family, friends and well-wishers.
