The Director General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dr. Dayo Mobereola, has emphasized the critical role of the Public Private Partnership (PPP) model in the development of Nigeria’s maritime infrastructure. Speaking during a visit from Dr. Jobson Oseodion Ewalefoh, Director General of the Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC), Dr. Mobereola highlighted the need for increased private sector involvement to enhance infrastructural capacity in the maritime sector.
Dr. Mobereola noted that the maritime sector is highly capital-intensive, making it difficult for the government to finance necessary infrastructure projects on its own. He called on the ICRC to assist in developing PPP-based business models that would attract both local and international private investors.
“We appreciate the responsiveness of the ICRC, but the reality is that the government alone cannot provide the required infrastructure for the maritime sector. It is imperative to streamline processes and leverage technology to make the sector attractive to private investors. We will continue to count on the ICRC’s support in driving NIMASA’s PPP projects to ensure effective and efficient service delivery for our stakeholders,” Mobereola stated.
In agreement, Dr. Ewalefoh emphasized the strategic importance of the maritime sector to Nigeria’s economy, adding that the PPP model would inject much-needed funding and technical expertise into the sector. He reassured NIMASA of the ICRC’s commitment to partnering on projects and ensuring their timely completion.
“Our country needs substantial funding for infrastructure, and it is crucial to create an enabling environment that prioritizes service delivery over revenue generation. People are more willing to pay for services when they are guaranteed quality. The ICRC stands ready to collaborate with NIMASA on these projects,” said Dr. Ewalefoh.
The PPP model has been widely recognized as an effective tool for driving infrastructural development and economic growth. In line with this, NIMASA has continuously embraced collaboration with private entities to foster growth in the maritime sector, positioning it as a key player in Nigeria’s economic development.