The Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Awwal Gambo CFR, has officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Messrs Dearsan Shipbuilders, a Turkish ship firm at the Naval headquarters in Abuja.
This agreement signifies a significant step towards the refit of the Nigerian Navy Ship, ARADU, and marks a noteworthy achievement in strengthening the Nigerian Navy’s capacity to ensure enhanced security within Nigeria’s maritime domain.
“Nigerian Navy Ship ARADU was commissioned into the Nigerian Navy Fleet as the Flag Ship in 1985 represented Nigeria in diverse naval operations and exercises within Africa and beyond.
She is the only variant of the 5 MEKO 360 Frigates built in Germany for Argentine and Nigerian Navies. Regrettably, wear and tear associated with sustained use as well as the harsh operating environment has taken its toll on the edifice.
“However, with the support of the Federal Government of Nigeria through the unrelenting efforts of the standing Senate Committee on rehabilitation of Nigerian Navy Ship ARADU, we are gathered here today to commence modalities to rerole and modernise the nation’s Flag Ship”, he added.
He expresses his gratitude to Mr. Aziz Yildirim, the President of Dearsan Shipyard, and his esteemed team members for their unwavering dedication and also delighted not only to be present at the signing of this Memorandum of Understanding but also for the significant meaning it holds.
Furthermore, he gives special recognition to the standing Senate Committee for their exceptional and unparalleled efforts.
“Another significance of today’s event is the landmark agreement for the supply of additional 57-meters Fast Attack Craft to support the remodelled Flag Ship.
“Undoubtedly, operationalisation of these 2 vessels will not only increase the Fleet of Ships but also reposition the Nigerian Navy for enhanced maritime security operations for socio-economic prosperity of Nigeria and Africa at large.
“Pertinently, the choice of partnering with Messrs Dearsan Shipyard is based on the company’s track record in high-quality ship building capability as well as strict adherence to agreed timelines.
“Gratefully, Dearsan Shipyard is currently constructing 2 High Endurance 76 meters Offshore Patrol Vessels for the Nigerian Navy in Turkey”, He added.
Responding, the Managing Director of Dearsan Shipyard, Mekat Gordi, showed his gratitude to the Nigerian Navy for selecting their company for the project while assuring that Dearsan Shipyard is committed to delivering exceptional results and making the project truly remarkable and memorable.
Admiral Gambo emphasizes that a key factor in this project is the integration of various equipment, auxiliaries, and subsystems into the construction of the Offshore Patrol Vessels. These additions will enhance the operational capabilities and standardization of the equipment on board the NNS ARADU, ensuring smooth maintenance and extending the lifespan of the refurbished flagship.