NIMASA Highlights Maritime Opportunities at the Enugu International Trade Fair, Seeks To Woo Investors

Kathy Kyari

The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) is calling on private investors and entrepreneurs to tap into the fast growing opportunities within Nigeria’s Blue Economy especially in the maritime sector.

This appeal was made at the 36th Enugu International Trade Fair, where NIMASA’s Director General, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, was represented by Mr. Umar Mohammed, Deputy Director of Planning, Research, and Data Management Services at the agency.

In his remarks, Mr. Mohammed reaffirmed NIMASA’s commitment to the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda and highlighted the agency’s focus on inclusive economic growth through stronger indigenous participation in both local 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.

Mr. Mohammed further revealed that NIMASA is actively implementing a Public Sector Cargo Support Programme. The initiative is designed to secure a steady stream of cargo for local shipping companies while gradually reducing Nigeria’s heavy reliance on foreign shipping lines.

He stressed that many of the agency’s projects are being driven through public-private partnerships to ensure they are not just impactful but also sustainable.

“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.

NIMASA also used the opportunity to commend the Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, and the leadership of the Enugu Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (ECCIMA), describing the fair as an essential platform for business networking and investment mobilization.

As Nigeria’s lead maritime regulatory agency, NIMASA continues to play a central role in promoting the Blue Economy, with a focus on ensuring sustainable development and efficient regulation of the nation's ocean resources.