The Nigerian Naval Dockyard Ltd. (NDL) has successfully repaired and refurbished the Benin Navy Ship (BNS) PENDJARI 900, strengthening bilateral relations between Nigeria and Benin Republic and enhancing maritime security in the region. The handing-over ceremony took place in Lagos on Wednesday, where Rear Admiral Abolaji Orederu, Admiral Superintendent of NDL, highlighted the initiative’s significance in improving the operational capacity of a friendly navy.
During the ceremony, Orederu stated that the ship has been returned to a fully operational state. He praised the dedication and professionalism of the officers and men from the Benin Navy, who collaborated closely with NDL personnel during the refurbishment process. “We never had a single form of disciplinary case or illegal activities. They were professionals,” he noted.
Orederu expressed gratitude to the Chief of Naval Staff, Rear Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, for his support in realizing the project. He also announced that the first ship has been delivered, with five more on the way, emphasizing that the repair utilized 100% local content and indigenous resources.
In his remarks, Vice Admiral Ogalla expressed his delight at witnessing the relaunch of BNS PENDJARI after extensive repairs, underscoring the importance of collaboration in enhancing regional maritime security. The initiative is seen as a crucial step in fostering cooperation between the two nations and ensuring safer waters in the Gulf of Guinea.