The Director General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dr. Dayo Mobereola, has assured maritime stakeholders that funds generated under the Cabotage Vessel Financing Fund (CVFF) remain intact and have not been misapplied. This statement dispels rumors circulating within the maritime community that the federal government may have misappropriated the funds.
During an interactive session with journalists on Monday, Dr. Mobereola clarified that the CVFF is currently being warehoused by the federal government and is set to be deployed soon. He acknowledged past mismanagement, noting that previous allocations of the fund were ineffective as they did not yield significant benefits for the government.
“We are now looking for the next opportunity so that once we start, it will be for the benefit of everyone,” Mobereola said, emphasizing that the fund’s future utilization will be carefully planned to ensure sustained impact. He added that the management is considering international developments in the maritime domain to guide the effective use of the fund.
Dr. Mobereola also highlighted that the CVFF’s focus will extend beyond merely acquiring vessels. The agency plans to ensure that vessels purchased through the fund are engaged in steady cargo transport both inwards and outwards, contributing to the broader economic goals of the country.
When asked about the possibility of Nigeria acquiring a national flag vessel, Dr. Mobereola expressed reservations, stating that he does not support the idea of the federal government owning such a carrier. Instead, he suggested that shipowners should operate vessels classified as Nigerian, which would carry cargoes to and from various countries globally.
Regarding the long-idle modular floating dock, Dr. Mobereola assured that it will soon be operational. He noted that the floating dock’s activation will benefit maritime cadets, generate revenue, and create employment opportunities. “We are almost there; we will soon put the floating dock afloat,” he promised.
In addressing the issue of outstanding debts owed to NIMASA, Dr. Mobereola disclosed that the agency has engaged two companies to assist in recovering these debts.
He also spoke on the recent creation of the Marine and Blue Economy Ministry, stating that it presents an opportunity to support President Tinubu’s economic turnaround agenda. Dr. Mobereola pledged NIMASA’s support for capacity-building initiatives for maritime media professionals, affirming the agency’s commitment to maintaining a strong partnership with the press throughout the year.
The session underscored NIMASA’s proactive approach to addressing key issues within the maritime sector, with a clear focus on transparency, effective fund management, and strategic planning to enhance Nigeria’s maritime capabilities.
