The Nigerian Navy has inducted SSV KALI 3, the first of 10 Security Support Vessels provided by Sterling Oil Exploration and Energy Production Company Limited, SEEPCO, to strengthen protection of the country’s critical energy assets
SSV KALI 3 was designed and built locally at the Okpai HM Shipyard in Delta State in collaboration with the Nigerian Navy.
It is the first vessel under a Memorandum of Agreement between the Navy and SEEPCO aimed at converting private-sector investment into tangible maritime security capability.
The Navy in a statement, signed by Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, Director of Naval Information said the collaboration with SEEPCO is aimed at strengthening inter-agency cooperation and enhancing maritime security operations to protect assets crucial to Nigeria’s economy.
The induction ceremony, held at Asemoku Jetty, Delta State, was presided over by the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas.
He was joined by the Deputy Governor of Delta State, Chief Monday John Onyeme, who represented Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, alongside senior military officers, government officials, traditional rulers, and maritime stakeholders.
Vice Admiral Abbas said the protection of Nigeria’s maritime environment and energy infrastructure is vital to sustaining economic activity, especially in the oil and gas sector.
He commended SEEPCO for its commitment and urged other maritime stakeholders to support similar partnerships.
According to the Navy, the vessel is equipped for coastal and offshore security, interdiction, anti-piracy operations, maritime law enforcement, and escort duties. Its design is suited to Nigeria’s complex coastal and shallow-water environment.
The CNS charged personnel assigned to operate KALI 3 to maintain professionalism, discipline, integrity, and operational readiness.
The Navy described the induction as a practical convergence of maritime security, indigenous shipbuilding, and private-sector investment in support of Nigeria’s strategic economic interests.
The remaining nine vessels are expected to be delivered as part of the 10-vessel KALI-series programme.
