First Lady Oluremi Tinubu revealed the second 76-meter High Endurance Offshore Patrol Vessel constructed for the Nigerian Navy at DEARSAN Shipyard in Turkey on Friday.
The Nigerian Navy, aiming to combat oil theft and illicit arms smuggling, emphasized the pivotal role these offshore vessels play.
It is noteworthy that DEARSAN Shipyard previously launched the first OPV on October 26, 2023.
Commodore A. Adams-Aliu, the Nigerian Navy’s Director of Information, highlighted that this vessel’s launch enhances the protection of the country’s waters.
The official statement remarked, “Aligned with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, Her Excellency, Nigeria’s First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu CON, officially launched the second 76-meter High Endurance Offshore Patrol Vessel crafted for the Nigerian Navy at DEARSAN Shipyard, Turkey, on Friday, April 19, 2024.”
“The introduction of the 76-meter HE – OPV signifies Nigeria’s dedication to defending its territorial waters and addressing maritime challenges,” the statement continued.
Adams-Aliu shared that the Chief of Naval Staff initiated the construction of 2 OPVs in 2022.
“DEARSAN Shipyard is responsible for building 2 OPVs for the NN, with the first OPV’s launch taking place on October 26, 2023. I am delighted that the construction milestones have been met and extend my gratitude to DEARSAN Shipyard’s management for their commendable efforts. The key specifications of the newly unveiled OPV include: Length – 76.90m, Width – 11.90m, Draught – 3.60m, Speed – 28 knots, Propulsion System – Combined Diesel and Diesel, Range – 2500nm, Endurance – 16 days, and Crew Capacity – 47,” the statement detailed.
Highlighting the significance of the vessel, Ogalla underlined its role in curbing illicit arms smuggling and other malevolent activities.
He noted, “The construction of this vessel will enhance the Nigerian Navy’s fleet modernization efforts to fulfill its constitutional duties, ensuring a robust presence at sea to combat illicit activities like oil theft, piracy, sea robbery, illegal fishing, and the smuggling of Small Arms and Light Weapons, among other offenses within Nigeria’s extensive 84,000 sqnm maritime domain.”
“Moreover, it will support the exploration of the significant potential within Nigeria’s maritime territory in line with the Federal Government’s Blue Economy initiatives,” Ogalla added.