The Nigerian Navy has inducted a new security patrol vessel in Delta State as part of efforts to protect offshore assets, reduce oil theft and strengthen maritime law enforcement.
The vessel, SSV KALI 3, was provided by Sterling Oil Exploration and Energy Production Company Nigeria Limited under a partnership with the Navy.
It is the first of 10 private maritime logistics vessels expected under the agreement.
SEEPCO will provide the vessels, while the Nigerian Navy will deploy personnel to operate them on security missions.
KALI 3 was designed for coastal surveillance, interdiction, anti piracy operations and maritime law enforcement.
Chief of the Naval Staff Vice Admiral Idi Abbas said the arrangement demonstrated how the public and private sectors could work together without compromising statutory authority.
He said maritime security was essential to protecting energy infrastructure, government revenue and investor confidence.
The vessel is being introduced as the Navy continues Operation Delta Sentinel, launched in January 2026 to intensify intelligence led patrols and interdiction against crude oil theft and related crimes in the Niger Delta.
Abbas said sustained security operations had helped improve confidence around production corridors.
He also linked improved maritime security with the rise in national crude oil and condensate production.
According to figures cited at the ceremony, combined production averaged about 1.735 million barrels per day in June 2026, while crude oil production alone reached about 1.56 million barrels per day.
The naval chief said government policy, industry investment and security operations had all contributed to the improvement.
Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, represented by Deputy Governor Monday Onyeme, said construction of the vessel in Delta demonstrated growing local technical and industrial capacity.
He said the state would continue supporting projects that promote local content, employment and investment.
The governor also described security as a necessary condition for oil production, business growth and development.
SEEPCO officials thanked the Navy, the Delta State Government and host communities for supporting the project.
The Navy said KALI 3 would add operational capacity to the fight against oil theft, illegal bunkering and other maritime crimes.
