The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening regional maritime integration, cooperation and capacity development across Africa.
The 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.
The development was disclosed in a statement issued by NIMASA’s Deputy Director and Head of Public Relations, Osagie Edward.
According to Mobereola, the meeting reflected the longstanding and mutually beneficial relationship between Nigeria and Liberia, particularly within the maritime sector.
He stressed that stronger collaboration among African nations is essential to unlocking the continent’s maritime potential, strengthening the Blue Economy and promoting sustainable economic growth.
Mobereola noted that enhanced maritime cooperation would create opportunities for capacity building, knowledge exchange and employment generation across the continent.
“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,” he said.
He added that African countries must work collectively to develop maritime capacity beyond national borders and prepare young professionals for opportunities in the global shipping industry.
According to him, sea-time training and practical exposure remain critical to equipping Nigerian and African youths with the skills required to compete effectively in the international maritime sector.
Mobereola also expressed appreciation to the Liberian government for supporting Nigeria’s successful bid for the Category C seat of the International Maritime Organization (IMO).
He noted that both countries have maintained productive maritime relations over the years and should continue to deepen cooperation in areas of mutual interest.
Speaking during the visit, the Honorary Consul of Liberia, Mr. Dapo Akinosun, said the engagement was aimed at reinforcing the strong diplomatic and maritime ties between both nations.
He described the maritime industry as a critical driver of economic growth, regional integration and Blue Economy development across Africa.
Akinosun commended the management of NIMASA for its efforts in repositioning Nigeria’s maritime industry to attract investment and achieve sustainable growth.
He expressed Liberia’s readiness to strengthen collaboration with NIMASA in maritime administration, safety, capacity development and trade facilitation.
“Nigeria has demonstrated a 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.
Industry stakeholders believe that stronger partnerships between African maritime administrations could help improve regional trade, enhance maritime safety standards and create new opportunities for economic development.
The renewed commitment by Nigeria and Liberia is expected to support ongoing efforts to strengthen Africa’s maritime ecosystem, promote youth participation in the sector and advance the continent’s Blue Economy agenda.
