In a landmark move to bolster maritime security in the Gulf of Guinea, the Nigerian Navy has entered into an agreement with the Benin Republic Navy (BRN) to undertake the refurbishment of six BRN warships. This initiative is set to significantly enhance the naval capabilities of Benin and contribute to the safety and security of the crucial maritime region.
The agreement, which encompasses the docking and repair of the Beninois navy ships, was formalized at the Naval Dockyard Limited (NDL) in Victoria Island, Lagos. The signing ceremony took place at the BRN Naval Headquarters in Cotonou, marking a historic moment for both nations.
The Admiral Superintendent of NDL, Rear Admiral Abolaji Orederu, highlighted the significance of the agreement, stating that the warships—BNS PENDJARI, BNS OUEME, BNS ALIBORI, BNS ZOU, BNS MATELOT BRICE KPOMASSE, and BNS COUFFFO—had already set sail from Cotonou to Lagos. The refurbishment process is expected to span 10 months, during which the NDL will apply its expertise to restore the vessels to their optimal condition.
Rear Admiral Orederu emphasized the strategic importance of the NDL as a national asset and a force multiplier, catering to the defense and maritime needs through the construction, maintenance, and repair of naval platforms. He expressed that the partnership with the BRN is a testament to the regional cooperation and operational efficiency among the navies of the region, fostering stronger ties and enhanced security.
The Beninois Chief of Naval Staff, Captain Jean Le’on Olatoundji, conveyed his trust in the Nigerian Navy’s capabilities, recalling the initiation of discussions during his visit to the 66th anniversary of the Nigerian Navy in Lagos.
As at 2012 the Benin Navy has a strength of approximately 200 personnel. It operates two ex-Chinese patrol boats, which are designated the Matelot Brice Kpomasse class. In 2020, the United States supplied two Safe Boats vessels to better protect the Port of Cotonou and Gulf of Guinea coastline rife to increasing maritime insecurity.
The Nigerian Naval Dockyard stands as one of the few full-service shipyards in Africa, equipped to maintain and repair a wide range of naval vessels. Its commitment to enhancing Nigeria’s strategic self-reliance in naval and merchant vessel construction, maintenance, and repair is unwavering. With a broad clientele spanning the military, government agencies, and the private sector, the NDL is poised to serve as a principal repair facility for regional navies, further solidifying its role in promoting national and regional maritime security.