Sterling Oil Exploration & Energy Production Company Limited (SEEPCO) has marked a significant milestone with the induction of SSV-KALI 3, part of the KALI Series of Security Support Vessels, designed and built indigenously in Nigeria for the Nigerian Navy.
SSV-KALI 3, the 40-metre grey-hulled vessel, is the first of the KALI Series of Security Support Vessels provided by SEEPCO under the terms of a Memorandum of Understanding signed with the Nigerian Navy. As part of the company’s Local Content participatory commitment, the entire Kali series was designed and built by SEEPCO at Okpai HMI Shipyard in Delta State.
The induction ceremony took place at the HM Okpai Shipyard, Asemoku Jetty, Delta State, and was graced by the Deputy Governor of Delta State Chief Monday Oyeme, who represented His Excellency, the Governor of Delta State Mr. Sheriff Oborevwori, alongside the Chief of the Naval Staff, Nigerian Navy, who formally inducted SSV-KALI 3 into service, as well as senior officers of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, traditional and community leaders, partners and other distinguished stakeholders.
SSV-KALI 3 is uniquely designed with an innovative state-of-the-art modern facility, enabling the vessel to navigate the roughest terrain of the continental waters without berthing for days. On the maneuverability of the vessel, SSV-KALI 3 is compact enough for shallow creeks but rugged for offshore and deep offshore capability.
According to the Chief of Naval Staff, SSV-KALI 3 is a next-generation security vessel built in Nigeria with an indigenous orientation of Nigerian maritime terrain, which is notably necessary for effective and efficient operational excellence, owing to applications of international standards acquired by the vessel of its kind.
The vessel was designed and developed under Bureau Veritas and MARPOL rules and regulations and with structiural integrity verified under Bereau Veritas classification and she is ISO certified being part of IMO certified SSV Series, and equipped by Operations within Area 3 under Global Maritime Distress and Safety System
Raj Bhargava said the vessels were being delivered in collaboration with the Nigerian Navy to will protect maritime and critical energy assets as well as safety of personnel operating on Nigeria’s waterways. A senior company official said SEEPCO embarked on the vessel-building project as part of its commitment to supporting the Navy and strengthening maritime security.
The vessel is ISO-certified and fitted with class-compliant safety and lifesaving equipment. With an operational autonomy of approximately 10 to 12 days, KALI 3 is designed to support extended missions at sea. Its approximately 2.5-metre draft enables it to operate in shallow waters and creeks, while its rigid-hull inflatable boats (RHIBs) support boarding and rapid-response operations. The vessel is expected to support the protection of crude oil tankers, LNG carriers and offshore supply vessels operating within Nigeria’s maritime domain
