Our History
From humble beginnings to industry leadership: The Naval Dockyard story
Our Beginning
In 1965, the Federal Government of Nigeria acquired the Elder Dempster Lines Shipyard and transferred it to the Nigerian Navy, marking the origin of what would become the Naval Dockyard Limited (NDL). Initially built to support ship repairs and maintenance for naval operations, the facility was officially commissioned in 1969 as the Nigerian Naval Dockyard (NAVDOC).
Our vision is to be a quality-oriented organization that harnesses key competencies to reduce Nigerian vessels’ dependence on foreign shipyards. We aim to provide sustainable, innovative product solutions for the shipbuilding and maintenance market, serving both military and commercial maritime sectors.
Our Journey
Acquisition of Elder Dempster Shipyard
The Federal Government of Nigeria acquires the Elder Dempster Lines Shipyard and hands it over to the Nigerian Navy as part of a strategic initiative to build local naval capability.
Commissioning of NAVDOC
The facility is officially commissioned as the Nigerian Naval Dockyard (NAVDOC), providing ship repairs and limited shipbuilding services for the Nigerian Navy.
Feasibility Study for Expansion
A Nigerian consultancy firm is commissioned to conduct feasibility studies to expand the Dockyard's capabilities beyond 200-ton crafts.
Major Facility Upgrade
New facilities are partially commissioned to handle vessels of up to 10,000 tons, significantly improving in-country maintenance capacity.
Commissioning of Twin Docks
Two additional docks are commissioned, each capable of handling up to 250-ton vessels, increasing operational efficiency.
Rebranded as Naval Dockyard Limited
The dockyard is incorporated as a Limited Liability Company to enhance its commercial operations and industry competitiveness.
Expansion & Innovation
NDL has built naval vessels, tugboats, and barges for the Navy and private sector, and leads in metal fabrication for telecoms, oil & gas, and marine construction.
Naval Dockyard Today
Today, Naval Dockyard Limited stands as a premier maritime engineering facility in West Africa, providing top-tier services in ship repair, maintenance, and construction. With a highly skilled workforce and advanced equipment, the Yard caters to the Nigerian Navy and a growing list of commercial clients in the maritime, oil, and gas sectors.
Looking ahead, NDL is committed to expanding its global footprint by partnering with international shipbuilding firms. This will boost funding, technology transfer, and capacity building—positioning NDL as a global player in the shipbuilding and repair industry while supporting Nigeria's economic and maritime security goals.
Our Achievements
Key milestones and recognitions throughout our history
Naval Vessels
Successfully built and maintained naval vessels, tugboats, and barges for the Nigerian Navy.
Commercial Ships
Executed repair and refit services for a wide range of commercial and offshore support vessels.
Industry Recognition
Earned reputation as a key player in West Africa’s maritime industry with several industry accolades.
Safety Record
Upheld an excellent safety record with rigorous standards in operational and workplace safety.