Oil theft: Delta deploys new vessel to secure waterways, assets

Delta State has enhanced its maritime security operations with the induction of a new security support vessel, SSV-KALI 3, aimed at combating oil theft, illegal bunkering, and other crimes along the state's waterways. The vessel was officially inducted on Tuesday at the Yade Barge, Niger River Bank, in the Ndokwa East Local Government Area.

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SSV-KALI 3 will add valuable capacity to these efforts; it will strengthen maritime security, help protect oil and gas assets, and support the fight against oil theft, illegal bunkering and other maritime crimes.

Representing Governor Sheriff Oborevwori at the ceremony, Deputy Governor Monday Onyeme stated that the deployment of SSV-KALI 3 would significantly bolster efforts to secure waterways and safeguard critical oil and gas infrastructure. He emphasized that improved maritime security is crucial for protecting investments, increasing production, and fostering a safer business environment within the oil and gas sector.

Governor Oborevwori highlighted the vessel's importance, noting that it was designed and constructed within Delta State, serving as a testament to the state's technical expertise and industrial capacity. He commended the collaboration between Sterling Oil Exploration and Energy Production Company Limited (SEEPCO) and the Nigerian Navy, recognizing it as a demonstration of the value of local content in strengthening Nigeria's economy.

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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 Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, present at the ceremony, underscored the significance of strategic cooperation between the Nigerian Navy and private sector operators. He stated that such partnerships are essential for protecting Nigeria's maritime environment, critical energy infrastructure, and businesses operating in its waterways. Abbas assured private sector organizations of the Nigerian Navy's continued willingness to collaborate.

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The induction highlighted the importance of strategic cooperation between the Nigerian Navy and private sector operators.