Naval Training Command

History of Naval Training Command

The Naval Training Command (NAVTRAC) was established on 20 May 1987 as the central coordinating authority for all professional training within the Nigerian Navy. Its establishment was driven by the need to standardize training procedures, improve operational efficiency, and ensure uniformity in doctrine, instruction, and personnel development across the Service.

Prior to its establishment, training activities within the Nigerian Navy were decentralized, with various commands and units conducting training independently. This often resulted in inconsistencies in standards and operational preparedness. NAVTRAC was therefore created to harmonize training efforts and provide strategic direction for manpower development in line with the Navy’s evolving roles and responsibilities.

Over the years, NAVTRAC has evolved into a highly structured command responsible for overseeing a wide network of naval training institutions across the country. These institutions provide basic, professional, and specialist training for officers and ratings, covering areas such as seamanship, engineering, logistics, intelligence, hydrography, and special operations.

In addition to shore-based training, NAVTRAC coordinates Operational Sea Training programmes including Basic Operational Sea Training (BOST), Safety Operational Sea Training (SOST), and Consolidation Operational Sea Training (COST). These programmes are critical in ensuring that ships and personnel maintain a high level of readiness for operational deployment.

Today, Naval Training Command remains a cornerstone of the Nigerian Navy’s operational effectiveness, playing a vital role in developing skilled manpower, enhancing professionalism, and sustaining the Service’s capacity to meet contemporary maritime security challenges within Nigeria’s maritime domain.

Leadership

Rear Admiral Ebiobowei Abraham Zipele

Flag Officer Commanding Naval Training Command

Rear Admiral Zipele is a distinguished naval officer and graduate of the Nigerian Defence Academy. He has held several key appointments including Director of Policy at Naval Headquarters and Commander of multinational maritime operations.

With extensive experience in intelligence, training, and operational leadership, he provides strategic direction for the development of personnel and training standards within the Nigerian Navy.

Command Organization

Key Responsibilities

Training Institutions

Naval Training Command supervises a wide network of professional schools and training establishments across Nigeria, each specializing in different aspects of naval education and operational training.

Training Operations

Training Activities