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  • Reps okay N774.77b 2025 revenue target for NIMASA

    Reps okay N774.77b 2025 revenue target for NIMASA

    The House of Representatives Committee overseeing the activities of the Nigeria Maritime Safety, Education and Administration (NIMASA) yesterday approved the N774.77 revenue target presented to it by the agency.

    Speaking at a budget defence session with the agency, Chairman of the Committee, Khadijat Abba-Ibrahim however queried the possibility of the agency meeting the revenue target considering the short fall in its 2024 revenue generation exercise.

    Director-General of the agency, Dr. Dayo Mobereola had told the committee that the NIMASA was targeting an increase in its revenue for 2025.

    She drew the attention of the management to a major fiscal shift under the present administration, requiring NIMASA to remit 50 per cent of its IGR to the federal treasury—”A significant departure from the previous policy that allowed the agency to retain all IGR”.

    The committee, however, questioned the credibility of doubling the revenue target given the N97 billion shortfall in 2024.

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    It also raised the alarm on the steep rise in personnel costs, from N42 billion in 2024 to N73 billion in 2025, and queried whether this was due to mass recruitment or inflated benefits.

    Represented by the Executive Director, Finance and Administration, Hon. Chidi Offodile, the DG disclosed that after deductions, including federal remittances and maritime fund contributions, N264.96 billion would be available for operations.

    He listed freight levies, offshore waste management, sea protection and ship registration as major revenue sources, alongside new gains expected from automation, the rollout of a modular floating dock and collaboration with the U.S. Coast Guards.

    Speaking on the implementation of the 2024 budget, the executive director disclosed that while NIMASA projected N467.4 billion in revenue for 2024, actual collections amounted to N370 billion, indicating a 79per cent performance rate. Recurrent expenditures reached 87per cent of budgeted allocations, while capital spending stood at 51per cent implementation.

    The capital expenditure also came under scrutiny, with the committee questioning how NIMASA plans to implement N89 billion in capital projects when 50% of its revenue will be deducted at source.

    Responding to questions, the executive director said all budgets are projections subject to economic variables.

    He attributed the ambitious 2025 targets to anticipated oil production increases, enhanced revenue automation, and operational scale-up. “We are confident that with better systems and strategic partnerships, we can meet these targets,” he said.

    In adopting the budget to be presented to the plenary, the committee urged the agency to release the N200 billion approved for NIMASA for some key projects at the Maritime Academy of Nigeria, Oron in Akwa Ibom State.

  • Reps approve ₦774.77 billion 2025 revenue target for NIMASA

    Reps approve ₦774.77 billion 2025 revenue target for NIMASA

    The House of Representatives Committee overseeing the activities of the Nigeria Maritime Safety, Education and Administration (NIMASA) on Monday approved the ₦774.77 revenue target presented to it by the agency. 

    Speaking at a budget defence session with the agency, Chairman of the Committee, Khadijat Abba-Ibrahim however queried the possibility big the agency meeting the revenue target considering the short fall in its 2024 revenue generation exercise. 

    Director General of the agency, Dr. Dayo Mobereola had told the committee that the NIMASA was target an increase in its revenue for 2025.

    She drew the attention of the management to a major fiscal shift under the present administration, requiring NIMASA to remit 50% of its IGR to the federal treasury—”A significant departure from the previous policy that allowed the agency to retain all IGR”.

    The committee, however, questioned the credibility of doubling the revenue target given the ₦97 billion shortfall in 2024.

    It also raised the alarm on the steep rise in personnel costs, from ₦42 billion in 2024 to ₦73 billion in 2025, and queried whether this was due to mass recruitment or inflated benefits. 

    Represented by the Executive Director, Finance and Administration, Hon. Chidi Offodile, the DG disclosed that after deductions, including federal remittances and maritime fund contributions, ₦264.96 billion would be available for operations.

    He listed freight levies, offshore waste management, sea protection and ship registration as major revenue sources, alongside new gains expected from automation, the rollout of a modular floating dock and collaboration with the U.S. Coast Guards.

    Speaking on the implementation of the 2024 budget, the executive director disclosed that while NIMASA projected ₦467.4 billion in revenue for 2024, actual collections amounted to ₦370 billion, indicating a 79% performance rate. Recurrent expenditures reached 87% of budgeted allocations, while capital spending stood at 51% implementation.

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    The capital expenditure also came under scrutiny, with the committee questioning how NIMASA plans to implement ₦89 billion in capital projects when 50% of its revenue will be deducted at source.

    Responding to questions, the executive director said all budgets are projections subject to economic variables. 

    He attributed the ambitious 2025 targets to anticipated oil production increases, enhanced revenue automation, and operational scale-up. “We are confident that with better systems and strategic partnerships, we can meet these targets,” he said.

    In adopting the budget to be presented to the plenary, the committee urged the agency to release the N200 billion approved for NIMASA for some key projects at the Maritime Academy of Nigeria, Oron in Akwa Ibom State.

  • Tinubu appoints board for NIMASA

    Tinubu appoints board for NIMASA

    President Bola Tinubu has approved the appointment of a new Governing Board for Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA).

    The appointments, effective from June 24, is pursuant to Section 5 of NIMASA Act, which noted that the board should determine the policy of the agency with regard to the financial, commercial and operational programme.

    Among those appointed is Iroghama Ogbeifun, managing Director/chief executive of Starzs Investments Company, and chairman of Technical Committee of Shipowners Association of Nigeria (SOAN). Industry experts see Iroghama’s appointment as a testament to the vision of this administration’s commitment to strengthening institutions, recognising and enlisting individuals of merit and excellence in critical national assignments.

    The appointment is no surprise to those who have closely witnessed her passion for innovation, commitment to excellence, and drive for growth and transformation. Her passion for pioneering ideas, fostering sustainable growth, and upholding highest standards has been a hallmark of her leadership in Starzs. Through her strategic foresight and dedication, she has contributed to advancement of the maritime industry and the blue economy framework.

    READ ALSO; ROLL CALL: Atiku, El-Rufai, Malami, Tambuwal, others attend ADC coalition unveiling

    Ogbeifun has a Bachelor’s in Biology and Psychology from University of Massachusetts, Boston, and a Master’s in Public Health and Health Promotion from Brunel University, London. She is an alumna of Harvard Business School through its Owner/President Management programme. She holds professional certifications in Commercial Risk in Shipping from Lloyd’s Maritime Academy, among others. With over 11 years in maritime, she draws on her expertise and skills to lead on strategy while overseeing business development, finance, research and policy.

    For her, revenue performance is a crucial part of a leader’s scorecard and she has solid achievements in this regard. Among other several accomplishments, she helped Starzs qualify for $15 million in Mezzanine Debt for the expansion of company business in 2015. Under her management, the company has also grown its assets base from 3 ships in 2014 to 11 ships as at February 2021, an important milestone that reinforces the company’s stature as a key player in Nigeria’s maritime logistics industry.

    Other members are representatives of Ministries of Marine and Blue Economy, Labour, Nigeria Navy, the Director General of NIMASA and other persons with cognate experience in maritime, shipping and labour matters. The new Board was   inaugurated today Wednesday 2nd July, 2025.

  • Oyetola challenges NIMASA governing board on leadership

    Oyetola challenges NIMASA governing board on leadership

    The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, yesterday, inaugurated the newly constituted Governing Board of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), urging members to provide strategic leadership and ensure the agency fulfills its statutory responsibilities in alignment with national economic objectives.

    The inauguration ceremony, which took place at the Ministry’s headquarters in Abuja, was attended by key maritime stakeholders, directors of NIMASA, senior officials of the ministry, and the Speaker of the Commonwealth State House of Assembly.

    In his address, Oyetola conveyed the greetings of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and reiterated the administration’s commitment to the transformation of the Nigerian maritime sector as a critical pillar of the nation’s economic diversification efforts under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

    “The Nigerian coastline, stretching approximately 853 kilometres along the Gulf of Guinea—one of the world’s most strategic maritime corridors—offers immense opportunities for shipping, fisheries, coastal tourism, offshore energy, and marine biotechnology.

    The establishment of the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy by President Tinubu is a bold step aimed at unlocking these potentials through focused leadership and strategic governance,” Oyetola stated.

    READ ALSO; ROLL CALL: Atiku, El-Rufai, Malami, Tambuwal, others attend ADC coalition unveiling

    He emphasised that NIMASA, as one of the flagship agencies under the newly created ministry, holds a central role in the sector’s transformation. He reminded the new board members of their critical oversight function as provided under Section 6 of the NIMASA Act 2007, which mandates the board to formulate policies for the effective administration of the agency and ensure its statutory responsibilities are adequately discharged.

    “Your appointment by Mr. President is not by chance. It is based on trust in your capability to steer one of the nation’s most vital agencies. Your role is to provide strategic direction, guide policy, ask the right questions, and uphold the principles of transparency, accountability, and national service,” the minister said.

    He charged the board to avoid micromanaging the day-to-day operations of the agency, in line with President Tinubu’s clear directive that board members must focus on oversight and strategic policy formulation rather than operational interference.

    “I must remind you that your primary responsibility is to provide strategic guidance and not to encroach on the agency’s executive functions. The non-executive nature of the chairperson’s role must be respected to allow the management team to operate effectively while being held to the highest standards of accountability,” Oyetola added.

    He expressed confidence in the leadership of the newly appointed Chairman of the Board, Hamisu Yusuf, urging the board under his guidance to work harmoniously with NIMASA’s management to achieve greater heights.

    In his address, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Oloruntola Olufemi, described the inauguration as a significant step in repositioning NIMASA for enhanced performance. He commended the Minister’s leadership and assured the board of the ministry’s continued support.

    “The establishment of this board is integral to strengthening NIMASA’s governance structure and aligning the agency’s operations with the broader vision of President Tinubu’s administration. We trust in your ability to bring fresh perspectives and renewed energy to the work ahead,” Olufemi said.

    In his response, the Chairman of the Board, Hamisu Yusuf Abubakar, expressed appreciation to President Tinubu for the confidence reposed in the board members, describing the appointment as both an honour and a national duty.

    “We consider this appointment not just a privilege, but a call to serve with integrity, vision, and unwavering commitment to the ideals of the Renewed Hope Agenda. We are fully aware of the pivotal role NIMASA plays in achieving Nigeria’s economic diversification and harnessing the enormous potential of our blue economy,” Abubakar said.

    The chairman pledged that the board would work collaboratively with NIMASA’s management to entrench a culture of professionalism, transparency, and innovation in the agency. He further assured that the board would provide strategic oversight and policy direction that would strengthen NIMASA’s institutional capacity and drive sustainable growth in the maritime sector.

    “We will work as one team, united by purpose and driven by results, to ensure that the vision of Mr. President for a prosperous and secure maritime domain is fully realised,” Abubakar affirmed.

    He extended gratitude to the Oyetola for his leadership and assured him of the board’s alignment with the ministry’s strategic direction.

  • Oyetola inaugurates 11-member governing board of NIMASA

    Oyetola inaugurates 11-member governing board of NIMASA

    The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has inaugurated the 11-member governing board of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA).

    The Minister, while inaugurating the members in Abuja on Wednesday at the Ministry’s headquarters, charged them to prioritise national interest and work towards the development of the maritime sector.

    He emphasised that the Board’s decisions and policies must be guided by national interests and directed towards the growth of the country and the advancement of its economy.

    He said, “Today’s inauguration of the board is not merely symbolic; it represents a renewed opportunity to steer the agency in a direction that aligns with our national aspirations. I must emphasise that the decisions and policies of this board must be guided by national interests and directed towards the betterment of Nigeria and the advancement of our economy.

    “Your appointment by the President is not by chance. It is rooted in sound, calculated reasoning and a trust in your capability to captain one of the most important agencies in this country.

    “The administration of President Bola Tinubu trusts you to bring your experience, integrity and sound judgment to bear in ensuring that the agency not only fulfils its mandate but also serves as a catalyst for the sustainable development of the Nigerian economy”.

    Oyetola, while highlighting the role of the board, urged them to work harmoniously with the management of the agency.

    “As board members, your role is to provide strategic direction, not to manage but to guide, to question and to uphold the values of transparency, accountability and national service. You are to support the management team while holding them to the highest standard of performance.

    “To echo the clear directive of President Bola Tinubu to all governing boards: Your primary responsibility is to provide oversight and strategic direction, not to micromanage. The President has emphasised the non-executive nature of the Chairperson’s roles and cautioned against interference in the day-to-day operations of the agency, and it is important that this principle guides your conduct in the discharge of your duties.”

    Speaking on behalf of the board members, the Chairman of the Board, Mr.Yusuf Abubakar, pledged the Board’s commitment to serving with dedication, clarity of purpose, and unwavering commitment to Nigerians.

    Read Also: Oyetola inaugurates NPA governing board, calls for a reform-driven body

    He said, “The task ahead is very clear. We are fully aware that NIMASA occupies a pivotal position in the actualisation of Nigeria’s economic diversification goal and, particularly, the enormous potential of our blue economy.

    “As a Board, we are resolute in our commitment to providing strategic oversight and guidance that will strengthen NIMASA’s institutional capacity and drive performance.

    “We assure you and the general public that this Board will work in close synergy with the management and staff of NIMASA to foster a culture of transparency, professionalism and innovation.

    “We would work as one team, united by purpose and driven by result, to ensure that the vision of Mr. President for a prosperous and secure maritime domain is fully realised”.

    Other members of the board are: Babatunde H. Bombata, Emmanuel Nosakhare Igbinosun, Rear Admiral P.C. Nwatu, Arc. Yinusa Yakubu, Fedelis Lorkoso Agbir, Iroghama Blessing Ogbeifun, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, Hon. Chudi Offodile, Engr. Fatai Taye Adeyemi and Mr. Jibril Abba.

  • Dayo Mobereola: Inside MEMS and the reformist at NIMASA

    Dayo Mobereola: Inside MEMS and the reformist at NIMASA

    By Sadiq Isa

    IT was American author, salesman and motivational speaker, Zig Ziglar, who famously said: “Success occurs when opportunity meets preparation.”

    Director-General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, NIMASA, Dr Dayo Mobereola, is an exemplification of that remark.

    With an impeccable academic background and rich experience in the transport sector, Mobereola’s rise to the helm of NIMASA is a testament to no less than 17 years of deliberate preparation meeting the right opportunity.

    His appointment by President Bola Tinubu, on March 11, 2024, to lead NIMASA for a renewable four-year term was not just a political decision, it was a recognition of expertise, readiness and excellent record in public service.

    These are attributes that have distinguished him within the transportation sector and made him a rare find among his peers to lead a demanding agency.

    Barely one year and two months into his tenure, he has shown reasons that the president was right to have appointed him.

    For instance, his understanding of public and private sector partnership from his days in the transport sector has nudged him to consistently stress that private sector investment is important in building a resilient and competitive maritime industry.

    And this vision of his is not just rhetoric.

    Which is why under his administration, NIMASA has enhanced its cabotage enforcement to ensure that Nigerian-owned vessels benefit from coastal trade opportunities.

    Within a short while, Mobereola has also intensified monitoring efforts to ensure compliance with local content laws, thereby demonstrating a commitment to repositioning NIMASA as a key driver of Nigeria’s maritime economy.

    Collaborations

    In a similar vein, NIMASA has strengthened collaborations with security agencies to curb illicit activities in Nigerian waters.

    An interesting and purposeful initiative in this regard is the agency’s partnership with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, to combat drug trafficking.

    This collaboration has enhanced surveillance and intelligence-sharing mechanisms, significantly improving maritime security and ensuring safer, more regulated waterways for legitimate trade and investment.

    Through the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Gboyega Oyetola, he facilitated Tinubu’s signing of six International Maritime Organisation, IMO, instruments of accession.

    This milestone, industry observers at the time noted will update Nigeria’s record and rating with the global shipping body, aligning the country’s maritime governance with international standards.

     Huge profile

    Mobereola holds a Ph.D. and an M.Sc. in Transport Economics from the University of Wales, United Kingdom.

    He is a fellow of the Chartered Institute of Transport, England, and a Fellow of the same institute in Nigeria.

    He was the Managing Director of Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority, LAMATA, from 2003 to 2015 and the Commissioner for Transportation in Lagos State from 2015 to 2016.

    Appointment and reception

    His appointment was not only well-received at the policy level but also welcomed enthusiastically by maritime workforce.

    Days after he was adjudged the best to lead NIMASA to a new era, the Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria, MWUN, expressed full support for Mobereola while describing him as a seasoned technocrat whose leadership is both needed and timely.

    President-General of MWUN Prince Adewale Adeyanju, in a statement through the Union’s Head of Media, John Kennedy Ikemefuna, hailed Mobereola’s background.

    His words: “Dr Mobereola is of no doubt a technocrat who has acquired experiences over time and is well grounded in the transportation sector; therefore, he has what it takes to navigate the NIMASA Agency as it were.

    “The leadership of the Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria is welcoming the new DG into his new designation with all hands open as he pilots the enormous affairs of NIMASA. The Union has had symbiotic relationships with past Directors -General of the Agency and believes the cordial relationship will continue to wax stronger with Dr. Mobereola.

    “The Union will continue to give him usual support and cooperation with continuous in-house engagement for a mutual understanding of the maritime industry.“Once again, the Union welcomes Dr Mobereola as he assumes his new designation in NIMASA, and also prays that the God will give him the strength, wisdom and knowledge to have a smooth sail in piloting the affairs of the agency.”

    Focus

    Without betraying the workers’ trust, a year and two months after, Mobereola has made human capital and seafarers’ welfare one of his cardinal objectives, to the delight of those working in the sector.

    Shortly after his appointment in June 2024, NIMASA began the process of replacing foreign seafarers with qualified Nigerians, an ambitious but necessary move aimed at creating local employment and building national capacity.

    This happened just as the agency commenced the third phase of the National Seafarers Development Programme, NSDP.

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    Mobereola, who spoke at the 2024 World Seafarers’ Day in Lagos, said that certain positions such as Ratings and Officer of the Watch will be designated as “no longer available” for foreign seafarers to occupy.

    Mobereola also said that some other positions may be considered based on merit for foreigners to occupy.

    In fact, he explained that the agency is exploring avenues to create jobs for local seafarers, including collaborating with government agencies like the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board, NCDMB, and the Nigeria Immigration Service, NIS.

    His words: “Seafarers are the backbone of global trade. They brave challenging conditions, ensuring over 80% of the world’s trade reaches its destination. Their dedication strengthens not only the international economy, but more importantly, the well-being of their home nation, Nigeria.

    “However, we recognise the humongous challenges seafarers face, including war zones, pirates, and exposure to health risks. We also acknowledge that some basic rights, such as proper insurance and compensation, are not always guaranteed. This is a call to action for all stakeholders’ government, ship-owners, and us at NIMASA – to address these issues and prioritize seafarer welfare.

    “I wish to state that the agency’s human capacity building initiatives have resulted in the training and retraining of Nigerian Seafarers to acquire the required skills in line with industry needs. We have prioritised the training programmes/courses to enable the seafarers to acquire the relevant advanced certificates that will enhance their employment opportunities.”

    Automation and digitization

    It is such a mindset that has nudged him to further seek to enhance NIMASA’s efficiency, transparency and regulatory compliance through the Maritime Enhanced Monitoring System, MEMS, which is currently drawing criticisms from laggards, apologies to Everett Rogers.

    It will be noted that introducing disruptive solutions to NIMASA’s operations was one of the reasons for the appointment of Mobereola by the visionary leader, President Tinubu.

    While there has been poor assessment of MEMS by agents of the dark, the system would be beneficial to NIMASA by providing real-time visibility into vessel movements, operational logs and regulatory interactions.

    In fact, through automated alerts, smart invoicing and centralised data integration, NIMASA will be able to detect, document and respond to maritime activities with greater precision and efficiency.

    Little wonder then the magnitude of opposition that the technology is facing.

    Undaunted by the hostility, the current leadership of NIMASA, like he is known for, has resolved to follow through on this technology that would bring into the coffers of government additional revenue to ensure funds due government does not end up in the pockets of individuals.

    Response to crash

    Another key thing that has distinguished his administration is the ability to collaborate with other international and foreign agencies.

    A recent demonstration of this was NIMASA’s response to a helicopter crash off the coast of Bonny Finima in Rivers State.

    The Sikorsky SK76, registered 5N-BQG and operated by East Wind Aviation, plunged into the Atlantic Ocean thus triggering a coordinated emergency response.

    With the recovery of the Flight Data Recorder, FDR, and Cockpit Voice Recorder, CVR, Mobereola announced that it would share its findings with IMO.

    A statement by the Head of Public Relations Directorate of the agency, Mr Edward Osagie, said by sharing the findings of the off-shore Port Harcourt helicopter crash with the IMO, NIMASA would be demonstrating Nigeria’s commitment to transparency, accountability and cooperation within the global maritime community.

    Osagie said at that time: “The Global Integrated Shipping Information System is an online platform developed by the IMO to support the timely and accurate reporting of incidents, accidents, and other essential maritime data. This platform enables member-state to share information crucial to improving safety protocols, updating best practices and fostering international cooperation.”

    Similarly, during a courtesy visit by the Chairman of the NDLEA, Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa, retd, to the NIMASA Towers in Lagos, the Director-General of NIMASA assured him that the agency would explore avenues to incorporate NDLEA personnel into the existing maritime security framework, with a particular focus on the Deep Blue Project.

    •Isa is a maritime expert

  • NIMASA outlines disbursement framework for $360m cabotage cash

    NIMASA outlines disbursement framework for $360m cabotage cash

    The $400 million Cabotage Vessel Financing Fund (CVFF) will be disbursed through 12 Primary Lending Institutions (PLIs).

    The Fund with a two-year moratorium and an eight-year tenure for the facility will be disbursed by the Federal Government through the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy in collaboration with the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), shall attract a single-digit interest rate.

    The Director-General of NIMASA, Dr Dayo Mobereola, outlined the guidelines yesterday during a one-day interactive forum organised for stakeholders on the operationalisation of the CVFF.

    Other issues being addressed by NIMASA in collaboration with the PLIs include insurance, fund security, flexible tenures, and the reduction of sundry fees to the barest minimum at subsidised rates.

    Mobereola emphasised the importance of the CVFF in developing the maritime sector, while acknowledging the role of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, through the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, in ensuring the immediate disbursement of the funds.

    Read Also: Transforming NIMASA: Mobereola’s first year

    He said: “I am Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, HE Adegboyega Oyetola, we have secured the necessary approvals for disbursement. This CVFF disbursement will be transformative for our industry by empowering indigenous shipowners to compete favourably, boosting local content in the maritime sector, creating employment opportunities for Nigerian seafarers, and strengthening ancillary maritime services.”

    The DG stressed the need for transparency throughout the process. “To ensure transparency and accountability, we have established a dedicated Secretariat Cabotage Unit, developed clear eligibility criteria, and partnered with 12 Primary Lending Institutions to facilitate access to the fund.”

    In his remarks, the President of the Nigerian Chamber of Shipping, Aminu Umar, and other industry stakeholders commended Oyetola, and the management of NIMASA for their efforts in facilitating the disbursement of the funds.

    Former Director-General of NIMASA, Temisan Omatseye, who had previously doubted the realisation of the CVFF, also joined others in commending the NIMASA management and the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy.

  • NIMASA denies concession claims, seeks support for digital reforms

    NIMASA denies concession claims, seeks support for digital reforms

    As debates continue over the future of maritime regulation in Nigeria, the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) has dismissed what it called “sponsored falsehoods,” urging public backing for its digital transformation initiatives aimed at boosting transparency, efficiency, and alignment with President Bola Tinubu’s national development agenda.

    In a statement released by its Head of Public Relations, Osagie Edward, NIMASA firmly denied claims that it was ceding its core responsibilities through any form of concession, describing such reports as deliberate attempts to sabotage the ongoing reform process.

    “The attention of the Management of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) has been drawn to sponsored publications falsely alleging that the Agency has embarked on a concession of its operations,” the agency stated.

    “The Management wishes to categorically state that there is no iota of truth in these claims. This is the handiwork of some external and internal elements who have conspired to benefit from the current porous system.”

    The agency said its current trajectory is a deliberate shift toward digitisation, not privatisation of operations. At the core of this transition is the Maritime Enhanced Monitoring System (MEMS), a new digital framework that provides real-time visibility into vessel movements, operational records, and compliance data.

    With MEMS, NIMASA said it is now able to track previously overlooked aspects of maritime activity such as waste reception services and pollution response with increased accuracy and accountability. These areas, the agency notes, have historically suffered revenue losses due to poor monitoring and manual processes.

    “Following a comprehensive internal review of operational systems, the current leadership of NIMASA resolved to embrace technology as a means of enhancing the Agency’s capacity to deliver on its regulatory mandate more effectively and to bring into the coffers of government additional revenue.We must ensure funds due government do not end up in private hands,” the statement read.

    “With MEMS, each waste offload can be logged, time-stamped, and automatically billed, converting previously missed opportunities into a consistent revenue stream while ensuring environmental standards are met.”

    NIMASA added that the improved use of satellite tracking, digital logbooks, and smart alerts is already enhancing its capacity to respond to marine pollution in real time and penalise offenders accordingly.

    The agency acknowledged that some of its past revenue challenges were rooted in outdated manual processes, fragmented data systems, and poor enforcement, gaps which are now being aggressively closed through technology.

    Read Also: Oyetola directs NIMASA to begin process of CVFF disbursement

    It said: “In the absence of satellite tracking and automated reporting, pollution events often go unnoticed or are reported too late to mitigate their impact. With the integration of modern surveillance systems, NIMASA can now respond swiftly, recover environmental damages, and hold polluters accountable both legally and financially.

    “The current reforms being implemented by NIMASA are focused squarely on overcoming these limitations. By investing in digital infrastructure and streamlining monitoring systems, the Agency is positioning itself to fulfill its statutory obligations with transparency, efficiency, and accountability.”

    Above all, NIMASA urged the public and maritime stakeholders to rise above misinformation and rally behind its transformation drive, which it says aligns directly with the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy’s strategic vision under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

    “The public is therefore advised to disregard the misleading reports and instead support NIMASA’s transformation journey as it aligns with the broader national objectives of the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR,” the statement noted.

    In a pointed reminder, NIMASA cited its once-controversial Deep Blue Project, now globally recognised as proof that resistance often precedes reform.

    “It is worthy of note that the Deep Blue Project of the Agency, which now enjoys global recognition, also witnessed such resistance at the initial stage,” the agency added.

  • Student group seeks end to overseas training for maritime workers, improved infrastructure at NMU

    Student group seeks end to overseas training for maritime workers, improved infrastructure at NMU

    The National Association of Nigerian Maritime Students (NANMS) has demanded an end to overseas training for staff and improved infrastructure at the Nigeria Maritime University (NMU).

    In a peaceful protest at the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) headquarters in Victoria Island, Lagos, the maritime students alleged that the university was being neglected and that the maritime traineeship programs being sent abroad should be redirected to NMU.

    The students demanded that NIMASA release the training floating dock to NMU, which they believe will provide the practical training infrastructure their curriculum demands.

    They also called for sea-time training opportunities for students across all maritime institutions in Nigeria, the implementation of a national cadetship program that is inclusive, transparent, and merit-based, and creation of employment pathways for maritime graduates.

    Oniel Abraham and Cletus Douglas, in separate address on behalf of the association, emphasised the current state of NMU is unacceptable and the government must take immediate action to address the challenges facing the institution.

    They believe that the university has the potential to produce world-class maritime professionals, but this can only be achieved if the government invests in the necessary infrastructure and training facilities.

    “We are not asking for the moon, we are asking for the basic facilities that will enable us to acquire the skills and knowledge required to excel in the maritime industry,” Abraham said. 

    “The government must prioritise the development of NMU and provide the necessary support to ensure that our institution becomes a center of excellence for maritime education in Africa.

    “The future of Nigeria’s maritime industry depends on the quality of training that our students receive. If we don’t invest in our institutions and provide our students with the necessary skills and knowledge, we will be compromising the future of our industry.”

    Douglas added: “We urge the government to take immediate action to address our demands. The government must take immediate action to address the challenges facing NMU and the maritime industry as a whole. 

    “The ball is in their court. We hope that they will take our demands seriously and take immediate action to address the challenges facing NMU and the maritime industry. We are willing to work with the government to find solutions to these challenges.”

  • Oyetola directs NIMASA to begin process of CVFF disbursement

    Oyetola directs NIMASA to begin process of CVFF disbursement

    The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has directed the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) to commence the process of disbursement of the Cabotage Vessel Financing Fund (CVFF).

    This directive marks a significant shift from over two decades of administrative stagnation and ushers in a new era of strategic repositioning of Nigeria’s indigenous shipping.  

    The CVFF, established under the Coastal and Inland Shipping (Cabotage) Act of 2003, was designed to empower Nigerian shipping companies through access to structured financing for vessel acquisition. 

     The disbursement of the CVFF represents not the release of funds, commitment to empowering Nigerian maritime operators, bolstering national competitiveness, and fostering sustainable economic development.  

    The Minister, in a statement on Tuesday by his Media Communications Adviser, Dr. Bolaji Akinola, stated: “This is not just about disbursing funds. It’s about rewriting a chapter in our maritime history. For over 20 years, the CVFF remained a dormant promise. Today, we are bringing it to life—deliberately, transparently, and strategically.” 

    NIMASA in compliance with the directive, has issued a Marine Notice inviting eligible Nigerian shipping companies to apply.

    According to the statement, qualified applicants can access up to $25 million each at competitive interest rates to acquire vessels that meet international safety and performance standards. 

    The fund will be administered in partnership with carefully selected and approved Primary Lending Institutions (PLIs), ensuring professional and efficient disbursement. 

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    The Minister stated: “We are not merely funding vessels; we are investing in a future where Nigerian shipping companies can stand shoulder-to-shoulder with their international counterparts. This is a turning point; one that affirms our commitment to local content, economic resilience, and maritime sovereignty.” 

    The disbursement of the CVFF would enable the growth of a stronger, self-sufficient shipping fleet, generate employment opportunities, stimulate local shipbuilding and repair industries, and significantly reduce capital flight associated with foreign vessel chartering. 

    “We are doing what should have been done years ago because our vision is clear. A strong indigenous fleet is not just a matter of pride; it is a strategic national asset. Through this intervention, we will be securing jobs, strengthening our economy, and redefining our place in the global maritime economy.” 

    Oyetola described the move by President Bola Tinubu’s administration and the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy as a historic milestone, signaling Nigeria’s determination to claim its rightful position in the global maritime sector—driven by local expertise, anchored by sound policy, and backed by strong political commitment.