-
NIMASA plans Deep Blue expansion following success in maritime security across Nigeria and the Gulf of Guinea.
-
Director-General Dayo Mobereola disclosed the move during talks with the Chief of Naval Staff in Abuja.
-
Global attention on Deep Blue Project positions Nigeria as a maritime security reference point in Africa.
The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) has indicated plans to expand its Deep Blue Project amid growing international interest in Nigeria’s maritime security framework.
The proposed expansion was disclosed by NIMASA’s Director-General, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, during a strategic visit to the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abass, at the Naval Headquarters in Abuja.
ATTENTION: Click “HERE” to join our WhatsApp group and receive News updates directly on your WhatsApp!
Mobereola said the engagement marked the beginning of high-level consultations aimed at sustaining, expanding and commercialising the gains recorded under the Deep Blue Project.
He noted that the initiative has significantly reduced incidents of piracy and sea robbery, while boosting confidence in Nigeria’s maritime trade routes and shipping corridors within the Gulf of Guinea.
According to him, strengthened security at sea has positively impacted shipping costs, insurance premiums and port competitiveness, making the Deep Blue Project an important economic asset beyond its security role.
READ ALSO: ICPC explains arrest of ex-NIMASA boss, Bashir Jamoh
Mobereola said the agency enjoys the backing of President Bola Tinubu, the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy and the Nigerian Navy, adding that NIMASA is working towards presenting proposals for further improvements to the project.
He disclosed that the Deep Blue Project has attracted international attention, with several countries seeking to replicate Nigeria’s civilian-led maritime security model.
Mobereola added that the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) has shown interest in understanding how a civilian agency successfully implemented the project, stressing the need for sustained collaboration to improve its long-term impact.
The NIMASA boss also congratulated Vice Admiral Abass on his appointment as Chief of the Naval Staff, while acknowledging his previous role as Commander of the Maritime Guard Command at NIMASA.
He further welcomed the Chief of Operations of the Nigerian Navy, Rear Admiral Musa Katagum, who is joining the NIMASA Governing Board as the Navy’s representative.
In his response, Vice Admiral Abass commended NIMASA for its continued support and reaffirmed the Navy’s commitment to inter-agency collaboration.
The Naval Chief said synergy between the Navy and NIMASA remains critical to achieving national maritime security objectives.
He called for a review of the 2007 Memorandum of Understanding between both institutions to reflect current operational realities, noting the Navy’s capacity to support vessel repairs, hydrographic surveys and charting.
Abass also sought NIMASA’s support in wreck removal, especially ahead of the Navy’s planned hosting of foreign vessels during its 70th anniversary celebrations.
He further praised the agency for launching the Cabotage Vessel Financing Fund application portal, describing it as a milestone in the disbursement process.
