The Federal Government has provided the maritime industry with enforcement and security facilities which include the addition of five new patrol and security boats to aid its fight against sea crimes.
The Minister of Transportation, Mu’azu Sambo, inaugurated the project on Monday in Lagos State, emphasizing that it reflects the government’s dedication to good governance and the establishment of institutionalized policies for enhancing maritime safety and security.
“The inauguration reaffirms our commitment to the mission of NIMASA, which is to achieve and maintain safe, secure shipping, cleaner oceans, and improved maritime capacity in accordance with international best practices for the economic growth and development of Nigeria.
“These five advanced enforcement platforms will ensure strict compliance with laws governing maritime operations and provide NIMASA with the necessary tools to function as a maritime administration, adhering to the protocols and conventions of the International Maritime Organisation and the International Labour Organization, with which NIMASA represents Nigeria as a contracting partner.”The minister stated.
Bashir Jamoh, the Director General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), highlighted that expanding their security capabilities will strengthen internal security measures in the waterways, particularly in response to recent incidents of oil theft.
“While our vision is aimed at achieving significant goals, we are also mindful of the detrimental impact of piracy, kidnapping of seafarers, smuggling, illegal oil bunkering, robbery, and unregulated and unreported fishing on our maritime sector.
In addition to combatting maritime crimes in the Gulf of Guinea, our administration is focused on maintaining a steady and efficient infrastructure development.” He said.