On November 12–13, 2025, Naval Dockyard Limited successfully handed over BNS MATELOT BRICE KPOMASSE to the Benin Navy after comprehensive maintenance and upgrades, marking another milestone in the long-standing partnership between both Navies.

Naval Dockyard Limited (NDL) successfully conducted the formal handover of the Benin Navy Ship (BNS) MATELOT BRICE KPOMASSE (MBK) on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, with the vessel departing the following day, Thursday, November 13, 2025. This momentous event marked a major milestone in the enduring partnership between the Nigerian Navy and the Republic of Benin Navy, celebrating the completion of extensive maintenance efforts that restored BNS MBK to full operational readiness.

The project, which spanned several months, involved a series of technical upgrades, refits, and collaborative engineering interventions. Present at the ceremony was the Special Guest of Honour, Chief of Naval Staff of the Benin Navy, Commodore Hounkpatin Dossa, who was represented by the Director of Military Organization and Personnel, Captain Idrissou Mohnamed. Also in attendance were the Chief Host, ASNDL Rear Admiral I.E. Shehu, senior officers from both the Dockyard and the Benin Navy, officers, and guests. All attendees were warmly welcomed by Lieutenant J.R. Atim-Ebim, who served as the Master of Ceremony.

In his welcome address, the ASNDL expressed his delight at the successful completion of the project, noting that it further strengthens the cooperation between the Nigerian Navy and the Benin Navy.

He emphasized that such achievements also advance the Nigerian Navy’s commitment to nurturing strategic partnerships with African Navies, in alignment with the mission, vision, and strategic directives of the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral I. Abbas (Admiralty Medal).

Following this, the Project Coordinator, Captain J.O. Orji, delivered a comprehensive brief outlining the various refits, overhauls, and restoration works carried out on BNS MBK. These included sandblasting, cropping and re-plating of the hull, dye penetrant and magnetic particle testing, main deck restoration, engine room interior refurbishment, overhaul of main engines and generators, gearbox overhauls, repairs of navigation and communication systems, restoration of compartments and living spaces, installation of a new air-conditioning system, overhaul of the bridge console, and sea trials, among several other critical repairs.

After the technical brief, the representative of the Benin Navy Chief of Naval Staff addressed the gathering. He conveyed the Commodore’s heartfelt appreciation to the Dockyard for its meticulous work and dedication in restoring BNS MBK to optimal operational condition, highlighting the professionalism and commitment demonstrated throughout the project.