The Nigerian Navy has inducted a new Security Support Vessel, SSV KALI 3, to boost the protection of critical energy infrastructure and strengthen maritime security.
The vessel was inducted on Tuesday, August 18, at Asemoku Jetty in Delta State, as part of a partnership between the Nigerian Navy and Sterling Oil Exploration and Energy Production Company Limited, SEEPCO.
The ceremony was presided over by the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, with senior military officers, government officials, traditional rulers and maritime stakeholders in attendance.
KALI 3 is the first of 10 Security Support Vessels being provided by SEEPCO under a Memorandum of Agreement with the Nigerian Navy.
The Navy said the initiative demonstrates how public-private partnerships can support national security and the protection of Nigeria’s economic interests, particularly the oil and gas sector.
The vessel was designed and built locally at the Okpai HM Shipyard in Delta State, in collaboration with the Nigerian Navy.
According to the Navy, KALI 3 will support coastal and offshore security, anti-piracy operations, maritime law enforcement, interdiction and escort duties.
The Chief of the Naval Staff commended SEEPCO for supporting the initiative and urged other maritime stakeholders to participate in partnerships aimed at improving national security.
He also charged personnel operating the vessel to maintain professionalism, discipline, integrity and operational readiness.
The Navy said the induction of KALI 3 represents a convergence of maritime security, indigenous shipbuilding and private-sector investment in protecting Nigeria’s strategic economic assets.
