The Nigerian Navy has strengthened its maritime security capability with the induction of Security Support Vessel (SSV) KALI 3 to enhance protection of Nigeria’s maritime interests.
The induction took place at Asemoku Jetty in Delta on Tuesday and was presided by the Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Adm. Idi Abbas.
This is contained in a statement by the Director of Naval Information, Capt. Abiodun Folorunsho on Tuesday in Abuja.
According to Folorunsho, SSSV KALI 3 is the first of 10 Security Support Vessels being provided by Sterling Oil Exploration and Energy Production Company Limited (SEEPCO) under a Memorandum of Agreement with the navy.
He said the initiative reflected a strategic public-private partnership aimed at translating private-sector investment into tangible maritime security capability.
“Notably, KALI 3 was designed and built in Nigeria at the Okpai HM Shipyard in Delta, in collaboration with the navy.
“This highlights the growing contribution of indigenous shipbuilding capacity to national security and economic development,” he said.
Folorunsho quoted the CNS who spoke at the induction as emphasising that the protection of Nigeria’s maritime environment and critical energy assets was essential to sustaining economic activity, particularly the oil and gas sector.
Abbas commended SEEPCO for its commitment to the initiative and urged other responsible maritime stakeholders to support partnerships that advance national security.
“The vessel is designed to support coastal and offshore security, interdiction, anti-piracy operations, maritime law enforcement and escort duties, with capabilities suited to Nigeria’s complex coastal and shallow-water environment,” he said.
The CNS charged the personnel assigned to operate KALI 3 to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, discipline, integrity and operational readiness, while reaffirming the navy’s commitment to strengthening partnerships that enhance maritime security.
The induction ceremony was witnessed by the Delta State Government alongside senior military officers, government officials, traditional rulers, maritime stakeholders and representatives of the private sector.
