The Nigerian Navy has inducted the Security Support Vessel (SSV) KALI 3 into its fleet to strengthen maritime security and enhance the protection of critical energy infrastructure and Nigeria’s maritime interests.
The induction ceremony, held at Asemoku Jetty in Delta State, was presided over by the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas.
The development was disclosed in a statement by the Director of Naval Information, Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho.
The ceremony was attended by the Deputy Governor of Delta State, Monday John Onyeme, who represented the State Governor, Sheriff Francis Orohwedor Oborevwori, alongside senior military officers, government officials, traditional rulers, maritime stakeholders and representatives of the private sector.
According to the statement, 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 Nigerian Navy.
The initiative is aimed at strengthening maritime security through public-private partnership, with private-sector investment being translated into tangible operational capabilities for the protection of Nigeria’s maritime domain.
Speaking at the event, the Chief of the Naval Staff stressed the importance of protecting Nigeria’s maritime environment and critical energy assets to sustain economic activities, particularly within the oil and gas sector.
Vice Admiral Abbas commended SEEPCO for its commitment to the initiative and called on other responsible maritime stakeholders to support partnerships capable of advancing national security.
The Navy said KALI 3 is equipped to support coastal and offshore security, interdiction operations, anti-piracy missions, maritime law enforcement and escort duties, particularly within Nigeria’s complex coastal and shallow-water environment.
The Chief of the Naval Staff also charged personnel assigned to operate the vessel to maintain the highest standards of professionalism, discipline, integrity and operational readiness.
He reaffirmed the Nigerian Navy’s commitment to strengthening partnerships that would enhance the security of Nigeria’s maritime domain.
The induction of KALI 3, the first vessel under the 10-vessel arrangement, marks a convergence of maritime security, indigenous shipbuilding and private-sector investment in support of Nigeria’s strategic economic interests.
