In a significant boost to Nigeria’s maritime sector, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Secretary-General, Arsenio Dominguez, has commended Nigeria for its efforts in maintaining the safety and security of commercial shipping in the Gulf of Guinea. This recognition comes amidst increased shipping traffic in the region due to the situation in the Red Sea .
During a meeting with the Director General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dr. Dayo Mobereola, at the IMO headquarters in London, Dominguez praised Nigeria’s progress in addressing maritime security concerns.
He expressed satisfaction with the country’s collaboration with the IMO and its commitment to sustaining the momentum of recent achievements.
Highlights
Enhanced Partnership: Dominguez emphasized the importance of continued partnership between Nigeria and the IMO to address maritime security challenges.
Global Integrated Shipping Information System (GISIS): The IMO Secretary-General announced plans to enhance GISIS to provide better information management services to member states.
Nigeria’s Commitment: Dr. Mobereola reaffirmed Nigeria’s dedication to becoming a leading voice in global maritime diplomacy and ensuring its active participation in the global maritime space.
Nigeria’s Strategic Objectives
Maritime Security Governance: Nigeria aims to strengthen its maritime security governance to guarantee the safety of ships and seafarers navigating the Gulf of Guinea.
Corrective Action Plan: The Honorable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy has constituted a committee to address concerns raised in the 2016 IMO audit report, including reviewing NIMASA’s enabling laws.
This development underscores Nigeria’s growing importance in regional and global maritime affairs, as well as its commitment to ensuring a secure and sustainable maritime environment.
