NIMASA Reiterates Commitment to Boosting Maritime Sector Growth

By Winifred Ngozi Orji 

Harboursandport.com: Lagos state, Nigeria - February 26, 2025: The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, NIMASA has reiterated its dedication to ensuring fairness and promotion of a conducive environment for businesses operating within Nigeria's maritime sector. 

This commitment is essential for enhancing competitiveness and encouraging investment in the industry. 

The Director General of NIMASA, Dayo Mobereola, made this known during a meeting with the Executive Members of the Nigerian Merchant Navy Officers and Water Transport Senior Staff Association. His remarks underscore the agency's focus on collaboration and support for stakeholders in the maritime industry, aiming to enhance operational efficiency and safety standards.

 He emphasized that under the supervision of the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, led by Hon. Adegboyega Oyetola, NIMASA is taking strategic steps to enhance local participation and encourage investment in the industry.

Mobereola revealed that NIMASA is deepening its collaboration with the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board, NCDMB to explore policies that will boost indigenous involvement and strengthen Nigeria’s maritime sector.

“The Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy is committed to encouraging indigenous players to invest more in Nigeria’s maritime industry. Issues such as national carriers and trade terms remain top priorities under this administration. Our focus is to create an enabling environment where private investors can thrive. In this regard, we have initiated discussions with the NCDMB and NNPC Limited to address these critical matters,” he stated.

In response, Comrade John Aleakhue Okpono, Secretary General of the Merchant Navy Officers and Water Transport Senior Staff Association, emphasized the need for closer collaboration between NIMASA and the Merchant Navy. He also urged the Agency to review waiver clauses to ensure more opportunities for Nigerian seafarers.

NIMASA remains committed to fostering strategic partnerships that will enhance local investment, create jobs, and drive sustainable growth in the maritime sector.