Robust Maritime Sector Key Component of Nigeria’s Economic Diversification, Says NIMASA DG Mobereola

The Director General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dr. Dayo Mobereola, has emphasised the importance of building a robust maritime sector as a key component of economic diversification, advocating for a shift away from reliance on crude oil to developing non-oil sectors to ensure sustainable growth.

Speaking during a media interaction organized by the agency on Monday, Dr. Mobereola provided clarity on the Cabotage Vessel Financing Fund (CVFF). He underscored its importance in supporting the Nigerian shipping industry and shipowners, adding that efforts are underway to expand the CVFF to better support Nigerian-flagged vessels to facilitate their operation worldwide and promote the carriage of Nigerian goods.

On the issue of safety awareness, Dr. Mobereola noted that the agency is collaborating with the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) to reduce vessel capsizing and improve safety, aligning with its core mandate and international standards.

The DG also highlighted that the agency is reviewing the engagement processes for the National Seafarers Development Program to ensure students receive quality education and become valuable professionals in the industry. He emphasized NIMASA’s commitment to ensuring that cadets return to Nigeria as well-prepared and employable graduates.

“We have not decided to bring those students back home. What we are doing is reviewing how the school has been engaged. Is it in the students’ best interest? Will they be well-prepared graduates who are employable by the industry? I’m sure you would agree that you wouldn’t want to invest your resources to send students abroad only for them to return half-baked and unemployable,” Dr. Mobereola stated.

Dr. Mobereola also addressed the agency’s broader initiatives, including the ongoing review of the NIMASA Act of 2007. He noted that the revised bill would introduce regulations for all maritime infrastructures, encompassing both large vessels and small boats, with a particular focus on the smaller vessels often used for illicit activities such as piracy and sea robberies.

“In the new bill, we aim to ensure that every boat in our waters is regulated, registered, and monitored. We’ll know who’s piloting them, their destination, and origin,” he stated.

During the session, Dr. Mobereola highlighted the significance of media collaborations, recognizing the role of journalists in influencing public opinion and holding the agency accountable.

Mosunmola Ogi-Olu 

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