The Admiral Superintendent of Naval Dockyard Limited (NDL), Rear Adm. Abolaji Orederu, says the dockyard now holds a prominent position among docking and ship repair facilities on the African continent.
Orederu made the remark on Monday while handing over leadership of the Naval Dockyard to Rear Adm. Ibrahim Shehu at the NDL, Victoria Island, Lagos.
Orederu, while expressing gratitude, thanked God Almighty for granting him good health and strength throughout his successful 21-month tenure at the dockyard.
He also extended appreciation to the Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Adm. Emmanuel Ogalla, for his unwavering support.
“His support encouraged and motivated the men, enabling us to achieve key infrastructural developments and landmark projects within the dockyard,” Orederu said.
One of the most significant projects during his tenure was the construction of the Seaward Defence Boat Four and Five, both built from scratch at the dockyard.
“This is the first time the dockyard is building two ships simultaneously, and we have successfully progressed them to the hull formation stage.
“My successor, in whom I have full confidence, will take over from here and complete the project,” he added.
Orederu highlighted the significant infrastructural upgrades under his leadership, particularly the revival of two major workshops, the galvanising and electroplating workshops, which had been non-functional for over two decades.
“These workshops are now fully operational and open for commercial activities, alongside several other completed infrastructural projects,” he said.
he listed another key achievement to be the construction of the Naval Dockyard Gallery, designed as a museum showcasing, artifacts, past and ongoing projects, and records of distinguished personnel who served meritoriously.
“Visitors to the gallery will gain insight into the dockyard’s capacity and expertise,” Orederu explained.
Additionally, his tenure initiated the construction of a multi-purpose complex named after the CNS: the Vice Adm. Oghalla Multipurpose Complex.
“The complex will house a senior rate mess, a restaurant, a supermarket, a salon, and residential apartments.
“It is still under construction, and I trust my successor will complete it, further boosting business activities within the yard,” he said.
Orederu noted the dockyard’s increased operational capacity, saying that they had docked numerous ships for both the Nigerian Navy and the wider maritime industry.
He highlighted a historic achievement to include, the successful docking of a 130-meter vessel, the largest in the dockyard’s history.
“Many ships now undergo complete overhauls and refurbishments here, showcasing our growing reputation,” he said.
“The dockyard secured its first international project; a contract to refurbish six ships for the Republic of Benin Navy.
“This project, which began in 2024, has already seen the successful delivery of their flagship, Beninoise Naval Ship (BNS) Pendjari. It is performing excellently, and they are thrilled.
“We currently have two more ships under refurbishment, and once completed, the remaining three will undergo the same process,” Orederu added.
Orederu emphasised the importance of prioritising personnel welfare, stating that “when you take care of the man, the machine will always work.”
He advised Rear Adm. Shehu to focus on the well-being of officers and soldiers at the dockyard to ensure smooth operations.
In response, Rear Adm. Ibrahim Shehu expressed gratitude to his predecessor for laying a strong foundation, promising to build on his legacy.
“I will deploy all resources and expertise to overcome any challenges in our mission to drive the dockyard toward the CNS’s vision,” Shehu assured.
He also thanked the CNS for his confidence in his new appointment, pledging to give his best efforts in his new role.