By Obiabin Onukwugha
The newly appointed Director-General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dr Dayo Mobereola, has stated that effective private sector collaboration and partnership can help the country unlock the immense potential in the Marine and Blue Economy.
He said opportunities for investment, innovation, and collaboration in this sector abound and that by joining forces, the sector can unlock the immense potential and contribute to Nigeria’s economic development.
Mobereola stated this during the handover ceremony of the Offshore Waste Reception Facility for Central Zone to the concessionaire “African Circle Pollution Management Limited” at the NIMASA Central Zone in Warri Delta State recently.
Mobereola who was represented by Kabiru Diso urged shipping companies, local and international oil companies, and other stakeholders operating in the Nigerian waterways to actively cooperate with the concessionaires.
He noted that their cooperation was vital not only for regulatory compliance, but also for the preservation of aquatic lives and the sustainability of the Blue Economy
He said: “Today is a significant and remarkable day, not just because we are handing over the site for the commencement of the implementation phase of the project, but it represents the success and commitment of the entities from the public and private sectors coming together to achieve a common goal of proper, effective and efficient collection and disposal of waste in our waters through a private company incorporated under the law of the federal government.”
The NIMASA boss noted the huge benefits accruable to stakeholders. He said the project is public-private partnership-driven aimed at ensuring a clean and safe marine environment in line with the MARPOL conventions.
“This partnership holds immense benefits for the stakeholders involved. It allows us to develop critical infrastructure assets that meet the immediate and long-term needs of the maritime sector, among others.
“I invite the private sector entities to explore the numerous investment opportunities in the maritime environment and partner with NIMASA to establish a robust infrastructure that drives economic growth in the marine and blue economy sectors.
“There are endless opportunities for investment, innovation, and collaboration in this sector. By joining forces, we can unlock the immense potential for our nation’s progress.
“I urged stakeholders to recognise the significance of this offshore waste reception facility and the greater responsibility it brings. So let’s work together to ensure its success,” he stated.