Nigerian Navy has launched Hydrographic Survey Vessel. In the civil and military circles, it is indeed, historic.
A statement by Commodore Suleman Dahun, Navy spokesman stated that history was made on Thursday, September 24, in Les Sables d’Olonne France. It was the launching of the first ever purpose built hydrographic survey vessel by the Nigerian Navy.
At the OCEA shipyard ceremony, Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, was represented by Rear Admiral Abraham Adaji. He informed that the new vessel replaces the Nigerian Navy survey vessel, NNS LANA which was decommissioned 10 years ago.
According to the CNS, the launching ceremony was a great significance as it marked a giant stride in the efforts towards actualizing a dream. It not only restores but enhances Nigerian Navy survey capability. He also emphasized that surveying and charting play crucial roles in safe navigation as well as delivery of maritime security.
Therefore, the new vessel will not only enhance the safety of Nigeria’s maritime environment. It will also serve as critical component of naval power deployment for enhanced maritime security in the Gulf of Guinea.
Further, the vessel will also provide protection of maritime resources and preservation of law and order at sea. This will contribute significantly to the promotion of global maritime commerce.
In his remarks, the CNS specially thanked the Commander in Chief of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Muhammadu Buhari. “His unflinching support to the recapitalization of the Nigerian Navy Fleet is amazing.”
NAVY COOPERATION
Earlier, Mr Fabrice Weinbach said the “LANA” was the result of the excellent cooperation between the Nigerian Navy and OCEA teams. He represented Mr Roland Joassard, the CEO of OCEA. Weinbach thanked the Nigerian Embassy staff and the Nigerian Building survey team for their commitment and professionalism.
“The ship demonstrates Nigeria’s willingness for improved knowledge of the country’s waters with a sea proven platform and up-to-date equipment.”
He also added that the OCEA and Nigerian Navy relations will be strengthened through the supply of integrated logistic support services.
According to him, this includes training to maintain the operational readiness of the crew and the on-site technical assistance.
Also speaking at the occasion, Nigeria’s Ambassador to France, Mrs Modupe Enitan Irele highlighted the significance of the ceremony. She described it as a manifestation of good Nigeria – French relations.
Construction of the new vessel started in 2018. It is scheduled to join the NN fleet in 2021.
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