
…AS REAR ADMIRAL AKINWANDE HANDS OVER
A new Flag Officer Commanding (FOC), Eastern Naval Command, has been appointed. He is Rear Admiral KC Ezete, who has taken over from his predecessor, Rear Admiral SA Akinwande.
He handed over today, Friday, 27th June 2025, at the Headquarters Eastern Naval Command, which was heralded with a grand farewell parade and RPC in honour of the outgone FOC East, Rear Admiral SA Akinwande.
The ceremony took place at Nigerian Navy Ship VICTORY Parade Ground, and was attended by distinguished dignitaries from Cross Rivers State and beyond.
The parade featured officers and men from ships and units under the Eastern Naval Command, comprising a guard, band and four divisions.
According to a statement from the Command, the parade showcased impressive drill and discipline, with March past in “Slow and Quick time,” and the Lowering and hosting of the Distinguished Admiralty Flags of the outgone and incoming Flag Officers Commanding, Eastern Naval Command, a practice that signifies the end and the begining of a new era.
In his farewell address, The outgone Flag Officer Commanding Eastern Naval Command, Rear Admiral Akinwande commended the officers and men of the command for their unwavering support and hard work during his tenure.

He also expressed his gratitude to the dignitaries present and enjoined the personnel to extend the same level of dedication and support to the incoming Flag Officer Commanding, Rear Admiral KC Ezete.
During his tenure as the 41st Flag Officer Commanding Eastern Naval Command, Rear Admiral SA Akinwande executed numerous laudable projects that positively impacted the Nigerian Navy and host community.
His leadership and vision left an indelible mark on the command, and his legacy will be remembered for years to come.
The ceremony concluded with the marching out of the guard and divisions, followed by group photographs and an RPC at the Eastern Naval Command Officers Mess where gifts were presented to the Out gone Flag Officer Commanding as a memorabilia for the auspicious occasion.