Nigeria, Liberia strengthen regional Maritime cooperation

Director General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, NIMASA, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, has reaffirmed the Agency’s commitment to advancing regional maritime integration, cooperation and capacity development across Africa.

Dr. Mobereola made this known when he received the Honorary Consul of the Republic of Liberia in Lagos, Mr. Dapo Akinosun, SAN, at the Agency’s headquarters in Lagos.

The NIMASA DG described the meeting as a reflection of the longstanding and mutually beneficial relationship between Nigeria and Liberia, particularly within the maritime sector.

According to him, 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.

Highlighting the significance of maritime cooperation, Dr. Mobereola noted that “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.

“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 added.

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

Earlier in his address, the Honorary Consul, Mr. Dapo Akinosun, SAN, 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 efforts towards repositioning 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.