REMARKS BY THE CHIEF OF THE NAVAL STAFF ON THE OCCASION OF THE VIRTUAL LAUNCHING CEREMONY OF THE NIGERIAN NAVY LANDING SHIP TANK-100 ON 7 JUNE 2021
PROTOCOL
1. It gives me great pleasure to be in your midst today on this historic occasion of the launching of the Nigerian Navy (NN) Landing Ship Tank-100 (LST-100) at the Damen Shipyards, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates. The LST-100 was conceived as a replacement for the decommissioned 2x LSTs (NNS AMBE and NNS OFIOM) from the NN inventory between 2012-2014. Thus, the LST -100 would enhance NN sealift, and evacuation capabilities for the conduct of amphibious operations. In this regard, this launching ceremony is of great significance as it marks a giant stride in our efforts towards restoring Nigerian Navy sea dominance within the GoG region.
2. Permit me to state that shipbuilding is a complex and time-based engineering activity, which demands hard work, integration of diverse competences and attention to the minutest detail. Thus, the choice of Messrs Damen Schelde Naval Shipbuilding to construct the LST-100 was made after a highly competitive bidding process. Distinguished ladies and gentlemen, let me state that Messrs Damen was selected based on her track record of high quality ship building capacity as well as the belief in the company’s ability to adhere to agreed timelines. At this milestone event of the project, I am glad to say that the confidence reposed in Messrs Damen has not been misplaced. Permit me, therefore, to congratulate Messrs Damen for meeting this crucial timeline in the construction of the LST-100 despite the disruptions and delays caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Accordingly, the launching ceremony today is being held virtually without the presence of the representatives of the Nigerian Navy in the Damen Shipyard in Sharjah, as is the custom. Despite the unfortunate turn of events which were not envisaged when the contract for the construction of the LST-100 was signed as well as the global lockdown which affected movement of people and goods, Damen Shipyard persevered and today, we are witnessing this launching ceremony. For that I say well done to the management and staff of Damen Shipyards.
3. Gentlemen, it is gratifying to note that the introduction of the LST-100 to the Nigerian Navy inventory will bolster NN sealift capability. Specifically, it would enhance the transportation of troops, military hardware, vehicles in the conduct of maritime security operations launched from sea as well as supply of relief material during periods of national emergency. Furthermore, the vessel will serve as a critical component of naval power projection for enhanced maritime security in the Gulf of Guinea and beyond. Let me also say that in its secondary role, the LST-100 will play a critical role in the protection of maritime assets and preservation of law and order at sea, thus contributing significantly to promotion of global maritime commerce, peace and safety.
4. As I conclude, I wish to specially thank the President, Commander-in-Chief of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Muhammadu Buhari for his unflinching support to the recapitalization programme of the Nigerian Navy Fleet. Let me also once again thank the management and staff of Damen Schelde Naval Shipbuilding and all others who have contributed one way or the other towards the successful launching of this vessel. The Nigerian Navy and, indeed the global seafaring community, look forward to the services of this masterpiece as her keel touches water for the first time in her career. I believe the craftsmanship, standard of engineering and support provided by Messrs Damen Schelde Naval Shipbuilding will guarantee the effective presence of this vessel on the high seas for a long time to come.
5. On this note, on behalf of the officers, ratings and civilian staff of the Nigerian Navy, I say thank you for organising a colourful and excellent launching ceremony. May God bless you all. Like we say in the Nigerian Navy, Fair Winds and Onward Together.