The Nigerian Navy has inducted the Security Support Vessel (SSV) KALI 3 to strengthen maritime security and enhance the protection of critical energy infrastructure and Nigeria’s maritime interests.
The vessel was inducted on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, at Asemoku Jetty in Delta State, during a ceremony presided over by the Chief of the Naval Staff, 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, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Francis Orohwedor Oborevwori, was represented by his Deputy, Chief Monday John Onyeme.
According to the Director of Naval Information, Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, 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 public-private collaboration in maritime security while converting private-sector investment into tangible operational capability for the protection of Nigeria’s strategic economic assets.
KALI 3 was designed and built locally at the Okpai HM Shipyard in Delta State in collaboration with the Nigerian Navy, marking another milestone in the development of Nigeria’s indigenous shipbuilding capacity.
Speaking at the ceremony, the Chief of the Naval Staff stressed the importance of safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime environment and critical energy infrastructure, particularly the assets supporting the country’s oil and gas sector.
Vice Admiral Abbas commended SEEPCO for its commitment to the partnership and called on other responsible maritime stakeholders to support initiatives that contribute to national security and economic development.
The vessel is equipped to support coastal and offshore security operations, maritime interdiction, anti-piracy missions, maritime law enforcement and escort duties, particularly within Nigeria’s complex coastal and shallow-water environment.
The CNS also charged personnel assigned to operate the vessel to maintain professionalism, discipline, integrity and operational readiness.
The induction of SSV KALI 3, the first vessel under the 10-vessel arrangement, underscores the Nigerian Navy’s growing collaboration with the private sector while advancing indigenous shipbuilding and strengthening the protection of Nigeria’s strategic maritime and energy interests.
