The Economy 
At the ongoing 36th Enugu International Trade Fair, Nigeria’s apex maritime sector regulator, the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) has showcased the numerous business opportunities in the sector, calling on individuals and corporate organisations to invest in the sector.
Director-General of the agency, Dr Dayo Mobereola reiterated the enormous opportunities for both small and large scale investors in Nigeria’s blue economy and strongly encouraged the participants at the trade fair to come into the sector.
The NIMASA DG who was represented by the Deputy Director in the Planning Research and Data Management Service Department of NIMASA, Mr. Umar Mohammed highlighted NIMASA’s commitment to implementing the Renewed Hope Agenda of the Federal Government, while also emphasizing the need for inclusive economic growth through indigenous participation in domestic and international shipping.
“To unlock the full potential of our maritime economy, NIMASA 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,” he said.
He noted that the Agency is also implementing a Public Sector Cargo Support Programme aimed at creating a captive freight market for local carriers and reducing the dominance of foreign shipping lines in Nigeria’s seaborne trade.
Accordingly, he said 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.
The NIMASA DG through his representative used the opportunity to express appreciation to the Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, and the leadership of the Enugu Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (ECCIMA) for hosting the trade fair, which he described as a vital platform for business networking and investment drive.
NIMASA plays a key role in promoting the Blue Economy in Nigeria with its promotional responsibilities, being part of its mandate to regulate maritime activities and ensure sustainable use of ocean resources.
Photo: A cross section of Enugu Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (ECCIMA) Executives in a photograph with Deputy Director, Planning, Research and Data Management Services Department of NIMASA, Mr Umar Mohammed Salisu, representative of NIMASA DG (2nd from Right); and Chief Public, Private Partnership Office in NIMASA, Mr. Agu Chiedozie (Right) during the 36th International Enugu Trade Fair.
