The Director General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, NIMASA, Dr Dayo Mobereola, has renewed calls for deeper maritime cooperation among African nations as part of efforts to unlock the continent’s Blue Economy potential and strengthen regional growth.
Mobereola spoke during a meeting with the Honorary Consul of the Republic of Liberia in Lagos, Dapo Akinosun, at the agency’s headquarters in Lagos, where both sides reaffirmed their commitment to expanding maritime collaboration between Nigeria and Liberia.
Describing the engagement as a reflection of the enduring relationship between both countries, the NIMASA boss said stronger partnerships across Africa were essential for capacity development, regional integration and youth empowerment within the global maritime industry.
“The time has come for African nations to upscale maritime collaboration. The partnership between Nigeria and Liberia will help us build capacity, strengthen regional cooperation, and create opportunities for African youths within the global maritime industry,” Mobereola said.
He stressed the need for African countries to jointly develop maritime expertise through sea-time training and practical exposure, noting that such initiatives would better position young Africans to compete globally.
“We must collectively build maritime capacity beyond borders. Sea-time training and practical exposure will position Nigerian and African youths to compete effectively in the international maritime space,” he said.
Mobereola also commended the Liberian Government for supporting Nigeria’s successful bid for a Category C seat at the International Maritime Organization, IMO, noting that both nations had maintained productive maritime ties over the years.
Earlier, Akinosun said the visit was aimed at reinforcing the longstanding relationship between Nigeria and Liberia while opening new frontiers for maritime cooperation.
He described the maritime sector as a major driver of economic growth, regional integration and Blue Economy development, while applauding NIMASA’s efforts to reposition Nigeria’s maritime industry for sustainable growth and investment.
“Nigeria has demonstrated 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.