Former NIMASA Board Chairman Calls for Strategic Synergy With National Carrier For Sustainable Economic Growth

Former NIMASA Board Chairman Calls for Strategic Synergy With National Carrier For Sustainable Economic Growth

By: Bisi Akingbade

The Former Chairman of the Board of Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, NIMASA, Dr. Ahmed Tjjjani Ramallan, has advised on  a strategic initiative aimed at enhancing Nigeria's maritime sector and bolstering its national economy.

He commended the new Director General of NIMASA, Dr. Dayo Mobereola as a  Deep thinker and therefore  recommended the establishment of an inter-agency/inter-ministerial committee between the Ministry for Petroleum Resources and the Ministry for Marine and Blue Economy, which will developed a framework and mechanism for the carriage of our cargo, particularly Crude oil, that prioritizes the training and development of Nigerian sailors, Dockworkers and Port Workers in our Ports and Loading Terminals 

Speaking at the maritime stakeholders group meeting with the Renewed Hope agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at RKO Hotel in Lagos, he said that it is very imperative for the marine and blue economy sectors to integrate with National carrier, thereby bringing synergy which will amplify the economic benefits and opportunities within these sectors, fostering sustainable growth and development.

Dr. Ramallan further suggested that the agency should explore the possibility of collaborating with critical Nigerian Stakeholders in Maritime oil and Gas Shipping on board as a strategic partners in the establishment of the national shipping fleet/national carrier whose expertise and resources can significantly contribute to the success and viability of this initiative as part of the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu  

He noted that government should actively facilitate and support the establishment of the national carrier, including providing necessary regulatory frameworks, incentives, and financial backing. Additionally, the government should consider the handover of certain assets or resources to expedite the process.

Speaking on Maritime Labor Convention, MLC, Compliance, the former chairman 

emphasised the importance of adhering to the Maritime Labor Convention, MLC in all aspects of the national carrier's operations which he says will ensure the welfare and rights of seafarers are protected.

Dr Ramallan said "The establishment of a national shipping line/national carrier presents a prime opportunity to further the objectives of the National Seafarers Development Program, NSDP. The recruitment, training, and employment of Nigerian cadets should be prioritized to cultivate a skilled and competent workforce".

He added that "Acquisition of Training Vessel to facilitate training and sea-time provision for cadets, that can serve dual purposes, supporting local trading activities while also providing essential training opportunities for aspiring seafarers.