In a significant enhancement of its maritime capabilities, the Nigerian Navy proudly announced the addition of a new Offshore Survey Vessel (OSV), the OSV 115, which arrived at Apapa Lagos on April 17, 2024. Built by the French shipyard OCEA SA, this state-of-the-art vessel is tailored for in-depth hydrographic and oceanographic missions within Nigeria’s territorial waters.
The OSV 115 is a 35-meter vessel equipped with advanced survey technology, including medium/shallow water multi-beam echo sounders, crucial for conducting detailed surveys in varied water depths. This acquisition is part of Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to bolster its Blue Economy, focusing on sustainable use of ocean resources for economic growth, improved livelihoods, and jobs while preserving the health of ocean ecosystem.
This new vessel will work alongside the OSV 190 “NNS LANA,” which was also constructed by OCEA and delivered to the Nigerian Navy in 2021. The primary mission of the OSV 115 is to support the Navy in hydrographic and oceanographic surveying, a critical component in enhancing nautical charting and maritime safety.
The delivery of the OSV 115 includes comprehensive support services such as training for crew members, provision of spare parts, tooling, and essential documentation to ensure the vessel integrates smoothly into the Navy’s operations.
The Chief of Naval Staff expressed profound gratitude towards His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for his continuous support in renewing and expanding the Navy’s fleet, underscoring his commitment to national security and economic development initiatives.
The Nigerian Navy, which began producing internationally recognized nautical charts locally in 2019, sees the introduction of the OSV 115 as a strategic boost to its hydrographic capabilities, further securing and advancing Nigeria’s interests at sea.
This development represents a significant step forward in Nigeria’s maritime strategy, promising enhanced navigational safety and effective stewardship of its aquatic resources.