Captain Daniel Beecroft, the Executive Officer of Nigerian Navy Ship Delta, has credited the base’s recent accomplishments to the strategic foresight and commitment of its Commander, Commodore Shehu Mohammed Tasiu. Speaking at an officers’ ceremonial dinner in Warri, Delta State, as part of the Nigerian Navy’s 70th anniversary, Beecroft highlighted Tasiu’s transformational leadership.
Beecroft noted that under Tasiu’s guidance, NNS DELTA has seen significant improvements in personnel welfare, infrastructure, and community relations. He specifically praised the commander for organizing the first ceremonial dinner in the base’s history and for driving numerous development projects. Tasiu’s tenure has been marked by a focus on both operational effectiveness and social impact.
As part of the anniversary celebrations, the base undertook several humanitarian initiatives. At Ogiame Primary School, over 1,200 notebooks, textbooks, and school bags were distributed to pupils. A medical outreach in Ubeji Community provided free consultations, lab tests, eye exams, and dental care to more than 1,000 residents. Widows of fallen personnel also received support, and sporting events among youths and security agencies promoted unity.
Infrastructure projects commissioned include a modern transit accommodation and an executive officer’s residence, sponsored by Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited. Beecroft thanked the Delta State Government for its ongoing support, particularly the foreshore wall project that protects the base’s infrastructure. He also acknowledged the contributions of former Chief of Naval Staff Vice Admiral Dan Preston Omatsola (Rtd) and the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Kingsley Emu.
Commodore Tasiu, in his address, emphasized the importance of education and community engagement. He stated that investing in children through educational outreach is an investment in Nigeria’s future. He also highlighted the medical outreach and sporting competitions as ways to strengthen civil-military relations. Tasiu reaffirmed NNS DELTA’s commitment to securing Nigeria’s waterways and fostering development in host communities.
Other speakers at the event included retired Vice Admiral Omatsola, who described the armed forces as the keystone of Nigeria’s unity, and retired Commodore Omatseye Nesiama, who praised the Navy’s tradition of excellence. Brigadier General Efe Dafioghor emphasized the need for inter-agency collaboration, while the Commissioner of Police in Delta State, CP Yemi Oyeniyi, commended the Navy’s partnership with the police in combating crime.
The ceremony marked the culmination of weeks of activities celebrating the Nigerian Navy’s seven decades of service to the nation.