By Nkechi Eze
The Idi Abbas has reaffirmed the commitment of the Nigerian Navy to collaborate with relevant organisations to strengthen indigenous shipbuilding capacity and enhance naval operational capabilities.
Vice Admiral Abbas made this known on Tuesday in Abuja while receiving the Managing Director of ASELSAN Nigeria Limited, Mr. Amadou Ndongo Thiam, during a courtesy visit to the Naval Headquarters.
According to a statement by the Director of Naval Information, Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, the engagement aligns with the Nigerian Navy’s strategic objective of fostering partnerships that promote local content development, technology transfer and sustainable growth in defence capabilities.
During the visit, the ASELSAN delegation expressed readiness to establish a long-term partnership with the Nigerian Navy, with a focus on joint ventures, collaboration with indigenous shipyards and the integration of advanced defence technologies.
The company highlighted its expertise in several areas including unmanned systems, infrared search and track technologies, integrated combat solutions and the modernization of naval platforms.
As part of their engagement, members of the delegation also visited Naval Dockyard Limited, where they observed the ongoing construction of Seaward Defence Boats, an initiative that underscores opportunities for collaboration with Nigeria’s growing indigenous shipbuilding capacity.
In his remarks, Vice Admiral Abbas described the engagement as timely and strategic, noting that the Nigerian Navy remains committed to partnerships capable of delivering tangible technology transfer while strengthening the country’s defence industrial base.
He also stressed the importance of structured collaborations, particularly through government-to-government frameworks, to ensure transparency, efficiency and alignment with national security priorities.
The Chief of the Naval Staff added that such partnerships would position the Nigerian Navy for improved maritime security operations while supporting the broader goal of developing Nigeria’s indigenous defence and shipbuilding capabilities.
