NIMASA woos private investors to Nigeria’s blue economy opportunities

• Deputy Director, Planning, Research and Data Management Services and representative of the NIMASA Director-General, Umar Salisu (middle) and the agency’s Chief Public, Private Partnership Officer, Agu Chiedozie (right) and others during the 36^th International Enugu Trade Fair

By Anthony Nwachukwu

The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) has called on private individuals and corporate investors to seize the emerging opportunities within Nigeria’s blue economy, particularly in the maritime sector.  

Speaking at the 36^th Enugu International Trade Fair, NIMASA Director-General, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, emphasised the need for inclusive economic growth through indigenous participation in domestic and international shipping, according to a statement from the NIMASA Head of Public Relations, Osagie Edward. 

NIMASA, he said, is pursuing an integrated development strategy that will support indigenous operators in ship acquisition, establish a national carrier line, and create maritime training institutions for world-class seafarers.” 

According to Mobereola, who was represented by the Deputy Director, Planning Research and Data Management Service Department, Umar Mohammed, the agency is also implementing a public sector cargo support programme.  

He explained that the programme aims to create a captive freight market for local carriers, thereby reducing the dominance of foreign shipping lines in Nigeria’s seaborne trade. 

According to him, the agency’s strategic initiatives are being driven through public-private partnerships to ensure sustainability and long-term impact.  

Therefore, “we are inviting investors and entrepreneurs to collaborate with us in developing a robust and competitive maritime sector that will create jobs and boost the national economy,” he added. 

Meanwhile, he commended the Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, and the leadership of the Enugu Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture for hosting the trade fair, which he described as a vital platform for business networking and investment drive.