Sixty naval personnel, including ratings, were yesterday trained on prevention and response to conflict-related violence.
The training also included aspects of sexual abuse.
The Flag Officer Commanding (FOC), Naval Training Command, Rear Admiral Levi Ajuonu, who opened the training in Lagos, said it would address civilian protection and ensure professionalism in all aspects of naval duties.
He said participants were drawn from various naval formations, adding that the training would expose officers and ratings to the United Nations (UN) standards on best practices.
The FOC said participants will be trained on protection of civilians in peace support operations in internal security as well as international legal dimension.
Ajuonu noted that the Nigerian Navy would no longer work in isolation in the creeks, adding that it was involved in operation built-up areas, such as Plateau, Borno and Bauchi states.
He said: “It is noteworthy that from the inception of your sojourn in the Navy, you have undergone several training programmes aimed at imparting and sharpening your skills to efficiently discharge your responsibilities.
“However, this one is unique in the sense that the skills you will acquire are for your individual benefit to facilitate your meritorious service to your fatherland.”
He explained that at the end of the training, participants would be expected to analyse the challenges on planning and implementation of protecting civilians during operations.
He said: “This training will go a long way in determining how professional our men operate in the field. The entire nation is looking up to them to apply best judgment and outcome in future operations.
