Nigeria has taken a significant step in enhancing maritime security with the completion of sea trials for its second Offshore Patrol Vehicle-76 (OPV-76) vessel.
According to a post on X on Friday by the Special Assistant on Social Media to President Bola Tinubu, Mr. Dada Olusegun on Friday, the vessel built in Turkey, “has reached a speed of 53km/hr during testing and is now ready for deployment in the Gulf of Guinea.”
Olusegun noted that the move to modernize Nigeria’s maritime security began under the APC government led by President Muhammadu Buhari in 2021.
“The acquisition of the OPV-76 vessels is part of this effort, aimed at strengthening the country’s ability to protect its territorial waters and combat maritime crimes such as piracy and smuggling.
“The OPV-76 vessel is designed to enhance security activities such as patrol, surveillance, and anti-smuggling operations.
“With its advanced features and capabilities, the vessel will play a critical role in securing Nigeria’s maritime domain and promoting economic growth,” he said.
According to sources, the OPV-76 vessel has a length of 76.8 meters, a beam of 11 meters, and a displacement of 1,100 tons.
It is equipped with advanced weaponry, including a Marlin 40 main gun, Aselsan 30mm Guard gun, and 12.7mm Stamp weapon system, along with the ADVENT combat management system.
The deployment of the OPV-76 vessel is expected to have a significant impact on Nigeria’s maritime security, particularly in the Gulf of Guinea, which has been plagued by piracy and other maritime crimes.
The vessel’s advanced capabilities and features will enable the Nigerian Navy to more effectively patrol and protect the country’s territorial waters, promoting a safer and more secure maritime environment.
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