The Delta State Government has deployed a new security support vessel to strengthen surveillance of the state’s waterways and support the fight against oil theft, illegal bunkering and other maritime crimes.

The vessel, SSV-KALI 3, was inducted on Tuesday at the Yade Barge on the Niger River Bank in Ndokwa East Local Government Area.

Deputy Governor, Monday Onyeme, who represented Governor Sheriff Oborevwori at the ceremony, said the vessel would enhance efforts to secure the state’s waterways and protect critical oil and gas infrastructure.

Oborevwori said effective maritime security was vital to safeguarding investments, improving oil and gas production and creating a more secure operating environment for businesses in the sector.

He said the new vessel would complement the efforts of security agencies in tackling activities capable of undermining the state’s economy, particularly oil theft and illegal bunkering.

The governor also highlighted the vessel’s local origin, noting that it was designed and constructed in Delta State. He described its production as a demonstration of the state’s technical capabilities, industrial potential and commitment to local content.

Oborevwori commended the partnership between Sterling Oil Exploration and Energy Production Company Limited (SEEPCO) and the Nigerian Navy, saying the collaboration showed how private-sector investment and indigenous capacity could contribute to national security and economic development.

He said his administration would continue to support initiatives that strengthen local businesses, generate employment and expand indigenous participation in the state’s economy.

The governor added that the state government was working with security agencies to improve intelligence sharing, coordination and rapid response, particularly in communities and waterways linked to oil and gas operations.

Speaking at the event, the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, described the vessel’s induction as evidence of the value of strategic partnerships between the Nigerian Navy and private-sector operators.

Abbas said such cooperation was important for protecting Nigeria’s maritime environment, energy infrastructure and businesses operating across the country’s waterways.

He assured credible private-sector organisations of the Navy’s readiness to collaborate on initiatives aimed at improving maritime security and safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime interests.

Earlier, SEEPCO representative Raj Bhargava said the vessel was provided in collaboration with the Nigerian Navy to enhance maritime safety and protect personnel working on the waterways.

The deployment of SSV-KALI 3 is expected to boost security around Delta State’s oil-producing communities and waterways while supporting efforts to protect critical infrastructure and economic activities in the state.