The Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island, was bustling Monday morning as the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) hosted an interactive session with maritime journalists.
The event aimed to address challenges impeding the growth of Nigeria’s maritime sector.
Dr. Dayo Mobereola, NIMASA’s Director-General, was joined by Chidi Ofordile, Executive Director of Finance; Fatai Taye Adeyemi, Executive Director of Operations; and Jibril Abba, Executive Director of Maritime Labour and Cabotage Services.
The DG opened the session by acknowledging the crucial role of maritime journalists as partners in the sector’s development.
Prominent maritime journalists, including Hope Orivri, Timothy Okorocha, Eugene Agha, Asu Beks, Dr. Ovie Edomi, Eddie Iroha, Funsho Olojo, Ismail Aniemu, and Ezinne Chinwe Azunna, raised a variety of issues ranging from regulatory concerns to maritime diplomacy.
Dr. Mobereola addressed the problem of vessels involved in illegal activities, stating that efforts are underway to ensure all vessels in Nigerian waters are properly registered to facilitate identification of illicit operations.
He also responded to queries about the overlapping functions of NIMASA, NPA, and the NSC, suggesting that journalists are better positioned to clarify these issues, as agency representatives might be seen as defending their own turf.
On the topic of the unused floating modular dock, Dr. Mobereola revealed that his team had recently inspected it and that steps are being taken to operationalize it to boost employment and revenue.
He also discussed the Cabotage Vehicle Finance Fund (CVFF), emphasizing that past disbursements were flawed and future distribution will aim for long-term sector development.
He stressed that the CVFF should address both vessel acquisition and cargo demand to ensure profitability.
Regarding seafarer training, Dr. Mobereola highlighted ongoing efforts to secure high-quality training abroad and noted the substantial foreign remittances by seafarers from other countries as a benchmark. He also mentioned a review of the NIMASA Act of 2017 to align with current standards.
Dr. Mobereola assured journalists that data availability would be improved, citing the importance of accessible information for research and comparison with global maritime economies.
He acknowledged concerns about NIMASA’s engagement with coastal states, indicating his intent to involve all relevant states as he settles into his role.
On transparency in recruitment and contracts, Dr. Mobereola admitted that improvements are needed but asked for patience as he acclimates to his role. He also addressed the issue of war risk insurance premiums, attributing them to an international cartel and pledging to raise the issue with the United Nations.
Finally, Dr. Mobereola expressed skepticism about reviving a national carrier, focusing instead on aligning Nigeria’s maritime operations with international standards and ensuring relevant certifications.
He also emphasized ongoing efforts to enhance cooperation with journalists, aiming for a more synergistic relationship between NIMASA and the media.
