The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) has reaffirmed its commitment to recovering debts from critical stakeholders in the shipping industry. This was disclosed by the Director General of NIMASA, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, during an interactive session with maritime media practitioners in Lagos on Monday.
Dr. Mobereola revealed that two companies have been engaged to assist in the debt recovery process, though he did not disclose the names of these firms. He emphasized that these organizations will be relentless in ensuring that ship owners settle their outstanding debts.
In addition to debt recovery, NIMASA has entered into a strategic partnership with the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) to address the issue of boat mishaps on Nigeria’s inland waterways. This collaboration is part of a broader effort to enhance safety and security on the nation’s waters.
Dr. Mobereola also provided updates on the long-awaited operationalization of the modular floating dock. He reassured stakeholders that the dock would soon be in use, following a recent visit by NIMASA’s executive management team and the consideration of several management proposals. The floating dock is expected to play a crucial role in providing practical training for maritime cadets, generating revenue, and creating employment opportunities.
The Director General further outlined NIMASA’s plans to ensure job placement for Nigerian cadets and graduates, stressing that the Cabotage Vessel Financing Fund (CVFF) would not focus solely on vessel acquisition. Instead, the agency aims to guarantee the availability of cargoes to sustain the fund’s operations and prevent a repeat of the Ship Acquisition and Ship Building Fund (SASBF) saga.
Dr. Mobereola highlighted the changes in Nigeria’s maritime industry since the initial disbursements of funds two decades ago, emphasizing the need for meticulous planning to achieve long-term efficiency. He stated that around 70% of the planning time is dedicated to ensuring the success of these initiatives.
As part of NIMASA’s broader vision, Dr. Mobereola discussed the agency’s efforts to expand the blue economy in collaboration with various state governments. He noted that under President Bola Tinubu’s administration, Nigeria is committed to economic diversification through the maritime industry. He expressed optimism that Nigeria could significantly benefit from the blue economy, citing Namibia, where the sector contributes 33% of the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
Addressing concerns about the quality of education and training for Nigerian cadets at Centurion University in India, Dr. Mobereola reiterated NIMASA’s commitment to ensuring that these students return as well-prepared and employable graduates. He assured that the agency is reviewing the university’s engagement and will make decisions in the best interest of the cadets and the nation.
Dr. Mobereola also touched on the ongoing review of the NIMASA Act of 2007, noting that the revised bill would include comprehensive regulations for all maritime infrastructures, with a particular focus on 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,” he stated.
On the topic of media engagement, Dr. Mobereola acknowledged the crucial role of journalists in shaping public perception and holding the agency accountable. He emphasized the importance of data and knowledge sharing to ensure accurate reporting and promised improvements in media relations, including training for media practitioners, which is included in NIMASA’s 2024 budget. He also mentioned that the remuneration of media professionals covering the sector is under review.
Dr. Mobereola encouraged media stakeholders to continue raising industry issues and comparing them with international best practices. He called for open dialogue and collaboration for the benefit of the maritime sector and the nation as a whole. “When you speak, it is perceived as being in the industry’s best interest. I encourage you to continue raising these subjects, comparing them with international practices, and advising us on what the NPA and Shippers Council should be doing,” he said.
This session marked NIMASA’s ongoing commitment to addressing key challenges in the maritime sector through strategic planning, industry collaboration, and effective communication with the media.