In a time-honoured military tradition that symbolizes the transition from one era to the next, Rear Admiral Mustapha Bala Hassan has officially assumed leadership command of the Western Naval Command, the Nigerian Navy’s premier command, on Wednesday.
According to a press statement signed by the Command Information Officer, Commander Patricia Ochei noted that this significant change in leadership marked the conclusion of Rear Admiral Mohammed Miftah Abdullahi’s three-month tenure as the Flag Officer Commanding Western Naval Command.
Rear Admiral Abdullahi, in his valedictory remarks, highlighted the significant achievements during his leadership, particularly in the arrest of individuals involved in various forms of illegal activities. He expressed gratitude for the journey of his career, emphasizing that his success was a result of divine grace rather than mere might. He urged all officers of the Command to extend the same level of cooperation to his successor.
Following the formalities of handing and taking over notes, Rear Admiral Mohammed Abdullahi symbolically transferred the Command insignia to Rear Admiral Mustapha Bala Hassan, officially marking the change of leadership. Rear Admiral Hassan, the 44th Flag Officer Commanding, Western Naval Command, addressed the gathering, calling on officers to increase their dedication and performance, citing the enormity of the tasks ahead.
He promised improved welfare for the officers and enlisted personnel within the Command and underscored the seriousness with which the challenges would be addressed. The ceremony’s climax was the lowering of the old command flag, signifying the end of Rear Admiral Abdullahi’s tenure, followed by the hoisting of the new command flag, marking the commencement of Rear Admiral Hassan’s leadership.
Rear Admiral Mustapha Bala Hassan’s tenure is eagerly awaited, with expectations of continued progress and accomplishments within the Western Naval Command. The change of leadership ceremony stands as a testament to the Nigerian Navy’s commitment to the seamless transition of authority and the nation’s security.
Rear Admiral Hassan’s academic journey has been marked by an unrelenting pursuit of knowledge. Currently working towards a PhD from the Nigerian Defence Academy in Kaduna and the University of Ibadan, he holds a Master of Science Degree in National Security and War Studies from the National Defence University in Islamabad, Pakistan, which he attained in 2015. In 2007, he achieved a Master of Arts Degree in International Relations from the University of Ghana, Accra. His educational achievements include a Post Graduate Diploma in Electrical Electronics from Obafemi Awolowo University, Ife, in 2004, and a Bachelor of Science Degree in Biological Sciences from the Nigerian Defence Academy in Kaduna in 1992.
Rear Admiral Hassan’s military career has been marked by a commitment to learning and leadership. He has completed a series of military courses, including the prestigious National Defence Course at the National Defence University in Islamabad, Pakistan. Additionally, he has attended the Senior Course at the Ghana Armed Forces Command and Staff College in Accra, Ghana, as well as the Officers Directing Staff Course in Shrivenham, United Kingdom. His earlier courses include the Junior Course at the Armed Forces Command and Staff College in Jaji, Kaduna, and the Officers’ Long Course at the Nigerian Navy Ship QUORRA in Lagos. He also underwent a Sub-Technical Course at the Nigerian Navy Ship QUORRA in Lagos.
Throughout his career, Rear Admiral Hassan has held various significant appointments, showcasing his versatility and leadership abilities. Notable positions include serving as the Flag Officer Commanding Western Naval Command in Lagos and as the Commandant of the Naval War College Nigeria in Calabar, Cross River State. He has also served as the Director of Policy at Naval Headquarters in Abuja, Deputy Commandant at the Armed Forces Command and Staff College in Jaji, Kaduna, and Chief Staff Officer at Logistics Command Headquarters in Oghara, Delta State. Other roles include Commandant of the Nigerian Navy Ship QUORRA in Lagos, Deputy Director of Maritime Domain Awareness at Naval Headquarters in Abuja, and Directing Staff positions at esteemed institutions such as the National Defence College in Abuja and the Naval War College Nigeria.
Beyond his military accomplishments, Rear Admiral Hassan is known for his diverse interests, which include mentoring, traveling, golfing, and sailing. His dedication to professional development, leadership, and personal growth reflects his commitment to his role in the Nigerian Navy and his nation’s security.
As Rear Admiral Mustapha Bala Hassan takes on this new challenge, his extensive experience, impressive credentials, and notable achievements make him a distinguished figure in Nigeria’s military landscape. His leadership promises to be a driving force in ensuring the security and prosperity of the nation.