By Seun Ibiyemi
The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) has reaffirmed its commitment to deepening maritime cooperation and capacity development across Africa as part of efforts to unlock the continent’s vast Blue Economy potential.
Director General of NIMASA, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, stated this during a meeting with the Honorary Consul of the Republic of Liberia in Lagos, Mr. Dapo Akinosun (SAN), at the Agency’s headquarters in Lagos.
Mobereola described the engagement as a reflection of the longstanding and mutually beneficial relationship between Nigeria and Liberia, particularly in the maritime sector, stressing that stronger collaboration among African countries is essential for sustainable economic growth and regional integration.
According to him, enhanced maritime partnerships would help strengthen regional cooperation, build technical capacity and create employment opportunities for African youths within the global shipping industry.
“The time has come for African nations to upscale maritime collaboration.
The partnership between Nigeria and Liberia will help us build capacity, strengthen regional cooperation, and create opportunities for African youths within the global maritime industry,” Mobereola said.
He added that practical sea-time training and cross-border capacity-building initiatives would equip young Africans with the skills and exposure needed to compete effectively in the international maritime sector.
The NIMASA boss also commended the Liberian Government for supporting Nigeria’s successful bid for a Category C seat at the International Maritime Organization (IMO), noting that both countries have maintained productive maritime relations over the years.
Earlier, Akinosun said his visit was aimed at strengthening the enduring relationship between Nigeria and Liberia while fostering closer maritime cooperation between the two nations.
He described the maritime industry as a critical driver of economic growth, trade facilitation, regional integration and Blue Economy development across Africa.
The Liberian envoy also praised NIMASA’s management for its efforts in repositioning Nigeria’s maritime sector for sustainable growth, investment and international competitiveness.
“Nigeria has demonstrated genuine commitment to maritime partnership and regional growth. Liberia looks forward to deeper collaboration with NIMASA in maritime administration, safety, capacity development, and trade promotion for the advancement of Africa’s Blue Economy,” Akinosun said.
The meeting underscores growing efforts by African maritime stakeholders to strengthen regional partnerships, enhance maritime safety, develop human capital and leverage the continent’s maritime resources to drive economic development.
