Federal Government, yesterday, commissioned Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) enforcement and security boats and other infrastructure forming the $195 million deep blue projects for improved waterways and capacity in line with global best practices and economic development.
The inauguration in Lagos witnessed five new patrol/security boats, five refurbished search and rescue/pollution control boats, four staff ferries, a search and rescue clinic, and an administrative building.
Minister of Transportation, Muazu Sambo, said the projects were consistent with the government’s commitment to good governance, and enhanced maritime and economic development.
He observed that projects the modern enforcement platforms would ensure strict compliance and adherence to extant laws governing the nation’s maritime domain.
Sambo hinted that the facilities would provide NIMASA with the much-needed tools to function as an administrator consistent with protocols and conventions of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) and the International Labour Organisation (ILO).
He said the search and rescue clinics would aid the provision of top-notch medical care.
Sambo added that the communication gadgets would boost the agency’s enforcement and rescue operators.
NIMASA Director General, Dr. Bashir Jamoh, said the inclusion of security/patrol boats along with search and rescue/pollution control boats was a big boost.
Also speaking, Chairman, House Committee on Maritime Safety, Education & Administration, Lynda Ikpeazu, commended NIMASA management for its focus and commitment.
She said the Ninth Assembly is glad to be part of the success story.
Ikpeazu charged the agency with judicious use of the assets while lamenting that the problem in Nigeria remains a lack of maintenance culture.
Source: The Guardian
