The Naval Dockyard in Lagos has completed major repairs on the Benin Republic’s warship, BNS Couffo, marking a key achievement in regional maritime security. The vessel was officially relaunched, showcasing upgrades that boost its ability to carry out patrols, surveillance, and rescue operations more effectively. This work follows an agreement between the Benin Navy and Naval Dockyard Limited to repair six Benin Navy ships, split into two phases. The first phase included BNS Pendjari, BNS Couffo, and BNS MBK. BNS Pendjari had already returned to service after repairs, and BNS Couffo’s restoration was finalized and celebrated recently.
Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, Chief of Naval Staff, highlighted this success as a symbol of strong cooperation between Nigeria and Benin Republic in maritime security. Represented at the event by Rear Admiral Baratuaipri Iyalla, he praised the Dockyard’s team for their skill and dedication. He also emphasized the Nigerian Navy’s role in fighting maritime crime, maintaining maritime safety in the Gulf of Guinea, and advancing indigenous shipbuilding and marine engineering. Over the past two decades, the Dockyard has repaired more than 110 Nigerian Navy and merchant vessels and trained over 1,200 engineers and technicians.
In 2024 alone, the Dockyard serviced 27 vessels, proving its growing expertise. The project not only strengthens regional security but also supports global maritime investment and development. The Dockyard was encouraged to keep leading in ship construction and maintenance across Africa and beyond.
Capt. Hounkpatin Dossa of the Benin Navy thanked the Nigerian Dockyard’s management and technical staff for their professionalism and commitment in restoring BNS Couffo. Commander Wencetas Gbaguidi added that the upgrade will improve the vessel’s ability to combat piracy, illegal fishing, and trafficking, boosting regional stability.
Plans to bring three more Benin Republic ships to the Dockyard for repairs are underway, continuing this important partnership focused on operational readiness and cooperation in maritime security.
