Ghana Navy has named its Slipway at the Naval Shipyard, Sekondi, after Commander John Arthur Kofi Adiku (Rtd) during a ceremony held on Friday, 26 June 2026. The event was organised to honour the retired officer for his pioneering role as the first Commanding Officer of the Naval Shipyard and his outstanding contributions to the growth of the Ghana Navy's engineering and maintenance capabilities.
In his welcome address, the Flag Officer Commanding, Naval Logistics Command (NAVLOC), Commodore Eric Osei, described the occasion as a fitting recognition of a distinguished Naval Officer whose legacy continues to inspire generations. He expressed appreciation to the Chief of the Naval Staff, the Naval Shipyard and all personnel whose dedication contributed to the successful organisation of the event.
Delivering the keynote address, the Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS), Rear Admiral Godwin Livinus Bessing, paid glowing tribute to Commander Adiku (Rtd) for his pioneering technical expertise and unwavering commitment to the development of the Naval Shipyard. He noted that although the Slipway had long served as a strategic asset, it had remained unnamed, making the occasion an important step in preserving the history and heritage of the Ghana Navy.
The CNS recounted the evolution of the Slipway, explaining that it was initially constructed to accommodate a single vessel before its rehabilitation in 2012 increased its capacity to two ships. He further disclosed that Government plans to acquire new Offshore Patrol Vessels, Fast Attack Craft and other naval platforms, which would further enhance the operational capability of the Ghana Navy in addressing emerging maritime threats.
In his remarks, Commander John Arthur Kofi Adiku (Rtd), who was the guest of honour for the occasion, expressed profound gratitude to the Ghana Navy, the Chief of the Naval Staff and the Naval Logistics Command for the honour. He described the ceremony as a recognition not only of his service but also of the collective sacrifices, dedication and professionalism that have characterised the development of the Naval Shipyard over the years.
Commander Adiku further described the Slipway as the heartbeat of underwater maintenance within the Ghana Navy and expressed satisfaction at its transformation into a strategic national asset. He commended the Navy's continued investment in infrastructure and technical capacity to support maritime security and national development.
Present at the ceremony were the Chief of Air Staff, Air Vice Marshal Eric Agyen-Frempong, former Chiefs of the Naval Staff, Flag Officers Commanding various commands, the Chief Staff Officer at the naval headquarters, distinguished Commodores, both serving and retired, Senior Officers, Officers, Master Coxswains, Coxswains, Ratings and Defence Civilian Staff, traditional leaders and some distinguished personalities.
