It was a touching sight yesterday as former Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Dele Joseph Ezeoba, broke down while reading his long handover note in an emotion-laden voice during the handover ceremony at the Naval Headquarters in Abuja. Ezeoba handed over to Rear Admiral Usman O. Jibrin, who was appointed his successor last Thursday, January 16.

Ezeoba while handing over listed a chain of achievements under his administration and urged the new navy chief to continue with the legacies and to help actualise the challenge of making the Nigerian Navy the best in Africa.

Vice Admiral Ezeoba pointed out that so-far the Navy has been transformed and has emerged as the most courted beautiful bride in Africa, saying many countries in Africa are seeking partnership and collaboration with the Nigerian Navy.

The military ceremonies, which preceded the handovers, included display of flags, exchange of decorative articles and signing of handover notes by the in-coming and out-going officers.

•Story adapted from a Daily Newswatch report. Photo of Vice Admiral Dele Ezeoba (rtd.) shedding tears during the hand-over ceremony also courtesy Daily Newswatch.