Navy Inducts SSV KALI 3, Deepens Partnership With SEEPCO on Energy Security

The Nigerian Navy has strengthened its maritime security capability with the induction of Security Support Vessel (SSV) KALI 3, the first of 10 vessels being provided by Sterling Oil Exploration and Energy Production Company Limited (SEEPCO) to support the protection of Nigeria’s critical energy assets and maritime interests.

The vessel was inducted at Asemoku Jetty in Delta State, at a ceremony presided over by the Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Idi Abbas.

The event was attended by senior military officers, government officials, traditional rulers, maritime stakeholders and representatives of the private sector. The Delta State Governor, Sheriff Francis Orohwedor Oborevwori, was represented by his deputy, Chief Monday John Onyeme.

In a statement issued by the Director of Naval Information, Navy Capt. Abiodun Folarunsho, the Navy said the induction formed part of efforts to strengthen maritime security and safeguard critical infrastructure, particularly assets supporting the oil and gas industry.

SSV KALI 3 is being provided under a Memorandum of Agreement between SEEPCO and the Nigerian Navy, representing a strategic public-private partnership aimed at converting private-sector investment into enhanced maritime security capability.

The vessel was designed and built locally at the Okpai HM Shipyard in Delta State in collaboration with the Nigerian Navy, highlighting the growing role of indigenous shipbuilding in supporting national security and economic development.

Speaking at the ceremony, Vice Admiral Abbas stressed the importance of protecting Nigeria’s maritime environment and critical energy infrastructure to sustaining economic activities, particularly in the oil and gas sector.

The CNS commended SEEPCO for its commitment to the initiative and called on other responsible maritime stakeholders to support partnerships capable of advancing national security and protecting the country’s economic interests.

According to the Navy, KALI 3 is designed to operate in coastal and offshore environments and is equipped to support maritime interdiction, anti-piracy operations, law enforcement and escort duties. Its capabilities are also suited to Nigeria’s complex coastal and shallow-water environment.

The Chief of the Naval Staff charged personnel assigned to operate the vessel to maintain high standards of professionalism, discipline, integrity and operational readiness.

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 strengthening Nigeria’s capacity to protect its strategic economic assets.