Nigeria, Liberia fortify regional maritime ties to boost blue economy

The Director-General of NIMASA, Dr. Dayo Mobereola

Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) has intensified its partnership with the Republic of Liberia to advance regional maritime integration, cooperation and capacity development across Africa.

Director-General of NIMASA, Dr Dayo Mobereola, who received the Honorary Consul of the Republic of Liberia, Dapo Akinosun, at the agency’s headquarters in Lagos, said stronger collaboration among African nations remains critical to unlocking the continent’s maritime potential, strengthening the blue economy, and promoting sustainable regional growth of the continent.

In a statement signed by the Deputy Director/Head, Public Relations, NIMASA, Osagie Edward, and made available to The Guardian, yesterday, Mobereola described the meeting as a reflection of the longstanding and mutually beneficial relationship between Nigeria and Liberia, particularly within the maritime sector.

Mobereola noted that African nations must upscale maritime collaboration.

He said the partnership between Nigeria and Liberia would help the continent build capacity, strengthen regional cooperation and create opportunities for African youths within the global maritime industry.

He, however, appreciated the Liberian Government for supporting Nigeria’s successful bid for the Category C seat of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO), noting that both countries have sustained productive maritime relations over the years.

Earlier in his address, Akinosun said the visit was aimed at reinforcing the enduring relationship between Nigeria and Liberia while promoting stronger maritime cooperation between both countries.

The envoy described the maritime sector as a key driver of economic growth, regional integration, and blue economy development, while commending the management of NIMASA for its efforts towards repositioning Nigeria’s maritime industry for sustainable growth and investment.

“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.