Nimmyel takes over command of Nigerian Navy Ship Beecroft

Commodore Paul Ponfa Nimmyel has officially assumed duty as the Commander of the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Beecroft, taking over from Commodore Rafiu Taye Oladejo.

The handing and taking-over ceremony took place on Thursday, February 6, 2025, at the NNS Beecroft conference room. It followed a send-forth parade held in honour of the outgoing commander.

Commodore Nimmyel, the 58th Commander of NNS Beecroft, hails from Plateau State and is a member of the 43 Regular Course of the Nigerian Defence Academy. Before his appointment, he served as the Maritime Component Commander of Operation Hadin Kai Headquarters, Maiduguri.

According to a statement issued by the Base Information Officer, Lieutenant Hussaini Ibrahim, Commodore Nimmyel has attended several military courses, including the Sub-Lieutenant Technical Course, Officers’ Long Course, Junior Staff Course, Senior Staff Course, and the National Defence College Course in Nigeria.

The Senior Officer holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Political Science and Defence Studies from the Nigerian Defence Academy, a Master’s degree in Strategic Studies from the University of Ibadan, and another Master’s degree in International Relations from Kofi Annan University. He is currently pursuing a PhD at the University of Ibadan.

Commodore Nimmyel has received numerous awards and decorations, including the Distinguished Service Star, Meritorious Service Star, Forces Service Star, Passed Staff Course insignia, Joint Task Force (North-East) Medal, ECOMOG Medal, and Multinational Joint Task Force Operations Medal.

The ceremony’s highlights included a send-forth parade, the signing of the handing and taking-over notes by both commanders and the transfer of the Command’s Flag.