The Delta State Government has boosted its maritime security operations with the induction of a new security support vessel, SSV-KALI 3, to strengthen the fight against oil theft, illegal bunkering, and other crimes on the state’s waterways.

The vessel was commissioned on Tuesday at Yade Barge, Niger River Bank, Ndokwa East Local Government Area, by Deputy Governor Monday Onyeme, representing Governor Sheriff Oborevwori.

Oborevwori said the deployment would enhance protection of critical oil and gas infrastructure, improve investor confidence, and create a safer environment for businesses. 

He noted that the vessel was designed and built in Delta, showcasing the state’s technical expertise and industrial capacity.

“This is an important occasion for SEEPCO, Delta State and Nigeria. We are celebrating not only a new security vessel, but also indigenous capacity, local content and a successful partnership between the private sector and the Nigerian Navy,” the governor stated.

The project was delivered in collaboration with Sterling Oil Exploration and Energy Production Company (SEEPCO) and the Nigerian Navy. 

Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, emphasized that such partnerships are vital to safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime environment and energy assets.

SEEPCO’s representative, Raj Bhargava, said the vessel would improve safety for personnel and operations on the waterways.

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