Nigerian Navy Seeks Stronger Ties with NIMASA to Ensure Safe Nigerian Waters
The Nigerian Navy has called for increased collaboration with the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) to strengthen hydrographic capabilities and maintain improved safety in Nigeria’s territorial waters. The call was made by Flag Officer Commanding, Western Naval Command (FOC-WNC), Rear Admiral Abdullahi Mustapha, during a courtesy visit to NIMASA Headquarters in Lagos.
Rear Admiral Mustapha praised the longstanding partnership between NIMASA and the Navy, noting that it has significantly contributed to the tranquility currently observed in the Nigerian maritime domain. “The unwavering partnership NIMASA has maintained with the Nigerian Navy is a clear testament to the strength of this collaboration,” he said.
Integration of NIMASA’s C4i Centre with Navy’s Falcon Eye System
The FOC West highlighted the potential of enhanced information sharing between NIMASA and the Nigerian Navy through the integration of NIMASA’s C4i Centre with the Navy’s Falcon Eye system, emphasizing that it would further improve maritime security.
He also commended NIMASA’s provision of platforms under the Deep Blue Project, operated by the Navy, which have bolstered operational efficiency in patrolling and protecting Nigerian waters.
Hydrographic Vessels to Strengthen Wreck Removal and Safety Standards
Rear Admiral Mustapha added that the deployment of two new hydrographic vessels—NNS Lana and NNS Ochuzor—capable of identifying the precise location and size of wrecks, would significantly enhance NIMASA’s operational capacity in wreck removal. “Utilizing advanced vessels such as NNS Lana and NNS Ochuzor has contributed to improved safety standards within the maritime sector. We must sustain these standards through deeper collaboration with NIMASA,” he noted.
NIMASA DG Highlights Maritime Security as Key to Economic Growth
Responding, NIMASA DG/CEO, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, emphasized that improved security in Nigeria’s waters is central to President Bola Tinubu’s economic diversification policy. “The maritime sector is at the forefront of President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, and it is our shared obligation to deliver a safe and secure maritime space. Achieving optimum security levels gives shipping companies the confidence to invest in the sector,” he said.
Dr. Mobereola also acknowledged the support of Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, CON, whose dedication to the development of Nigeria’s Blue Economy sector continues to drive results.
