𝐃𝐞𝐥𝐭𝐚 𝐃𝐞𝐩𝐥𝐨𝐲𝐬 𝐍𝐞𝐰 𝐕𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐞𝐥 𝐓𝐨 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐛𝐚𝐭 𝐎𝐢𝐥 𝐓𝐡𝐞𝐟𝐭

The Delta State Government has strengthened its maritime security operations with the deployment of a new security support vessel, SSV-KALI 3, to combat oil theft, illegal bunkering and other crimes along the state’s waterways.

The vessel was inducted on Tuesday at the Yade Barge, Niger River Bank, in Ndokwa East Local Government Area by Deputy Governor Monday Onyeme, who represented Governor Sheriff Oborevwori at the ceremony.

Oborevwori said the deployment would strengthen efforts to secure waterways and protect critical oil and gas infrastructure across the state.

The governor said improved maritime security was vital to protecting investments, increasing production and creating a safer environment for businesses operating in the oil and gas sector.

He added that the vessel would support security agencies in tackling oil theft, illegal bunkering and other maritime crimes capable of undermining the state’s economy.

The governor also highlighted the vessel’s local significance, noting that SSV-KALI 3 was designed and constructed in Delta State. He commended the collaboration between Sterling Oil Exploration and Energy Production Company Limited and the Nigerian Navy, describing it as an example of indigenous capacity and local content development.

Speaking at the event, Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, said cooperation between the Nigerian Navy and private-sector operators was essential to protecting Nigeria’s maritime environment, critical energy infrastructure and businesses operating on the waterways.

The vessel is expected to strengthen security around Delta’s oil-producing communities and waterways while supporting efforts to protect infrastructure critical to the state’s economy.