CNS Gambo Signs MoU with Turkish Firm, to Repair Nigerian Navy Ship, ARADU
Chief of Naval Staff(CNS), Vice Admiral Awwal Gambo signs a Memorandum of Understanding with Turkish Ship firm, Messrs Dearsan Shipbuilders today at Naval headquarter, Abuja for the refit of Nigerian Navy Ship, ARADU
According to Gambo, today marks another milestone at enhancing Nigerian Navy’s capability for 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 appreciates the President of Dearsan Shipyard, Mr Aziz Yildirim as well as his esteemed team members for being dedicated and therefore elated not just that we are here to witness signing of this Memorandum of Understanding but also for what it represents.
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He also specifically commends efforts of the standing Senate Committee for the unprecedented 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.
On his own part, the Managing Director of Dearsan Shipyard, Mekat Gordi, appreciates the Nigerian Navy for finding their company worthy for the project and promised that their company will definitely give the best results and makes the project remarkable and memorable.
The Naval Chief further elaborated that the major consideration is the fact that several equipment, auxiliaries and subsystems being used in the construction of the Offshore Patrol Vessels would be fitted onboard NNS ARADU to further enhance operability and equipment standardization, which undoubtedly would guarantee seamless maintenance necessary to extend the life span of the remodelled Flag Ship.
