… Considers withdrawal of over 300 cadets enrolled in Centurion University in India
BY Omenihu Alfred fibmn
The Director-General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dr. Dayo Mobereola, during an interactive session with maritime journalists at Eko Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos, on August 12, 2024, announced plans to enhance the welfare of media practitioners through a “Media Infrastructure” initiative. The event marked the DG’s first media engagement since his appointment five months ago. The DG gave assurance that in the 2024 budget of the agency, some journalists in the industry will be trained. He equally noted that adverts will be released annually. He equally noted that his administration will assure effective representation in media seminars and conferences in the industry. He also mentioned that the remuneration of media professionals covering the maritime sector is under review, reflecting the agency’s commitment to fostering a mutually beneficial relationship with the Maritime Journalist.
Above all he encouraged the media practitioners to keep up with their discussion on the misconceptions among the agencies in the industries to assist each of them to understand their boundaries. He also told them to continue raising industry issues and comparing them with international best practices. “I encourage you to continue raising these subjects, comparing them with international practices, and advising us on what the NPA and Shippers Council should be doing. When you speak, it is perceived as being in the industry’s best interest” he observed.
Talking about, the withdrawal of the over 300 Cadets of the National Seafarers Development Program at Centurion University in Indian, Dr Mobereola expressed concern about the quality of education and training the cadets are receiving at Centurion University. He emphasized NIMASA’s commitment to ensuring that these cadets return to Nigeria well-skilled and as employable graduates so as to add value to national economy. “However, they are not coming back yet. We are still reviewing the situation of their capacity and efficiency. We will need your help when we decide the way to go” he stressed. The Director General emphasized that the agency prioritizes the cadets’ futures, noting that NIMASA’s deliberations are centered on ensuring the best outcomes for the students. “These are the issues on our table right now, and we deliberate on them daily. I assure you that when we develop the best approach, it will be clear that we are acting in the cadets’ best interest, not our own. We want to ensure that the platform for them is right, and that is what we are working towards. When we present our plan, you will recognize that it is in the best interest of both the nation and the students,” he added.”
Still dwelling on the concerns of the NSDP cadets, the DG x-rayed on NIMASA’s broader initiatives, including the ongoing review of the NIMASA Act of 2007. He highlighted that the revised bill would introduce comprehensive regulations covering all maritime infrastructures, from large vessels to small boats, with a particular focus on smaller vessels often used for illicit activities such as piracy and sea robberies. “In the new bill, we aim to ensure that every boat in our waters is regulated, registered, and monitored,” he opined
Furthermore, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, also noted the importance of strong media partnerships, acknowledging the critical role of journalists in shaping public perception and ensuring the agency’s accountability. He highlighted the need for accurate data and knowledge sharing between NIMASA and the media to facilitate precise and informed reporting. “If we do not provide you with accurate information that we have spent time, resources and knowledge to collect, then we cannot expect you to report accurately,” he observed.
Reacting to CVFF Funds and Modular Floating Dock, the DG assured that funds generated under the Cabotage Vessel Financing Fund (CVFF) remain intact and will support indigenous ship-owners. He also promised that the modular floating dock will soon be put to use, boosting Nigeria’s maritime capacity.
Dr. Mobereola pledged to establish a more flexible and robust employment procedure to accommodate maritime journalists. He also assured that data will be made available to reporters upon request and emphasized the need for journalists to be included in NIMASA’s local and international trips. Dr. Mobereola reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting indigenous shipowners, reducing crime rates on marine spaces and waters, and adhering to national procurement procedures.
From National Impact Viral opinion poll from the participants, this epoch-making interaction which the DG has promised will be a quarterly program to foster better relationships between the agency and media practitioners, reveals NIMASA’s proactive approach and readiness to tackle challenges in the maritime sector, with a clear focus on enhancing education, regulation, and collaboration with industry stakeholders. The session was hailed as lively and intellectually stimulating, marking a new era of collaboration between NIMASA and the media
