By ZAKAA LAZARUS
The Nigerian Navy has inducted Security Support Vessel, SSV KALI 3, at Asemoku Jetty, Delta State, on Monday, August 18, 2026, to enhance the protection of critical energy infrastructure and Nigeria’s maritime interests.
This was contained in a statement by the Director Naval Information, Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho.
The induction ceremony was presided over by the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas. Also in attendance were the Executive Governor of Delta State, His Excellency, Rt. Hon. (Elder) Sheriff Francis Orohwedor Oborevwori, represented by the Deputy Governor, Chief (Sir) Monday John Onyeme, FCA, alongside senior military officers, government officials, traditional rulers, maritime stakeholders and representatives of the private sector.
SSV 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 reflects 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 State, in collaboration with the Nigerian Navy. This highlights the growing contribution of indigenous shipbuilding capacity to national security and economic development.
Speaking at the occasion, the CNS emphasised that the protection of Nigeria’s maritime environment and critical energy assets is essential to sustaining economic activity, particularly in the oil and gas sector.
He 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. It is suited to Nigeria’s complex coastal and shallow-water environment.
Vice Admiral Abbas charged the personnel assigned to operate KALI 3 to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, discipline, integrity and operational readiness. He reaffirmed the Nigerian Navy’s commitment to strengthening partnerships that enhance maritime security.
The induction of KALI 3, as the first of the 10-vessel arrangement, represents a practical convergence of maritime security, indigenous shipbuilding and private-sector investment in support of Nigeria’s strategic economic interests.
