Navy Pushes for Stronger Partnership with NIMASA on Hydrography

The Nigerian Navy has urged closer cooperation with the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) in hydrography to further enhance the safety of navigation in the country’s waters.

According to a statement on Tuesday by NIMASA’s Deputy Director/Head of Public Relations, Osagie Edward, the Flag Officer Commanding, Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral Abdullahi Mustapha, made the call during a familiarisation visit to NIMASA Headquarters. He also commended the achievements of the Navy-NIMASA partnership over the years.

Rear Admiral Mustapha highlighted that “the longstanding and steadfast collaboration between NIMASA and the Nigerian Navy has contributed to the stability currently observed in our maritime domain, reflecting the strength of this partnership.” He noted that improved information sharing, particularly integrating NIMASA’s C4i Centre with the Navy’s Falcon Eye system, would significantly boost maritime security.

Mustapha also praised NIMASA for providing platforms under the Deep Blue Project, which are operated by the Navy, stating that these assets have enhanced operational efficiency. He pointed to the two new hydrographic vessels, NNS Lana and NNS Ochuzor, which can precisely locate and assess wrecks, as key to advancing wreck removal operations and raising safety standards in the maritime sector.

“It is essential that we maintain and build upon these standards through deeper collaboration with NIMASA,” he added.

In response, NIMASA’s Director-General/CEO, Dr Dayo Mobereola, said the enhanced security of Nigeria’s territorial waters is central to President Bola Tinubu’s economic diversification agenda.

“The maritime sector is pivotal to the Renewed Hope Agenda and the Federal Government’s diversification policy. NIMASA and the Navy share the responsibility of providing a secure maritime environment, which gives shipping companies the confidence to invest and ensures maritime activities thrive,” Mobereola stated.

He also acknowledged the support of the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, for his consistent commitment to advancing the sector.