NIMASA, Navy partner on maritime security

Chinazor Megbolu

The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency
(NIMASA) is collaborating with the Nigeria Navy on maritime security in a bid to engender safety on the nation’s territorial waters

In a statement by NIMASA, Head, Corporate Communications, Mr. Philip Kyanet, both goverment agencies have made arrangements to improve information sharing through their respective security platforms to enhance maritime security in Nigeria.

The statement released on Sunday, hinted that NIMASA Command, Control, Computer Communications and Information Centre (C4i), Centre of the Deep Blue Project along with the Falcon Eye of the Nigerian Navy are undergoing integration towards that effect.

The statement further explained that the partnership was revealed during a working visit by the Flag Officer Commanding (FOC) Western
Naval Command, Rear Admiral Oladele Bamidele Daji with a team of senior officers from the Command.

The Director General, NIMASA, Dr. Bashir Jamoh, confirmed that both agencies mandates are interwoven.

Jamoh explained that since NIMASA was not an arm bearing organisation, it was crucial for the agency to support the Navy with necessary platforms, that would enable them to optimally safeguard Nigerian waters.

“Just like we did by ensuring that our Special Mission Vessels are manned by men of the Nigerian Navy, we are also looking at the possibility of effectively linking the C4i center at Kirikiri with the Falcon Eye of the Nigerian Navy.

“This is to ensure safety of lives and property for safer shipping in the Nigerian maritime domain, so that the maritime industry remains virile for economic prosperity,” Jamoh said.

He noted that the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) facility at Takwa Bay would become functional anytime soon.

Jamoh also pointed out that the facility would enhance intelligence gathering and information sharing with the Nigerian Navy.

The NIMASA DG hinted that this had led to the approval of the establishment of a Naval formation at Takwa Bay.

On challenges in the maritime corridor from Navy town to the Harbor in Apapa Lagos, the NIMASA chief executive maintained that activities of unapproved ship scrapping yards were a source of concern.

Jamoh, however, stated that all identified wrecks would be removed, working with the hydrography department of the Nigerian Navy.

He averred that those involved in such acts would be made to face the full wrath of the law if they fail to desist from indiscriminate scrapping of vessels and the likes.

According to him, “We are aware of the challenges wrecks, derelicts and activities of illegal scrap yards pose to our waterways.

“We will share information with the hydrography department of the Nigerian Navy, so that appropriate steps which will be in the best interest of the country will be implemented”.

Meanwhile, Daji commended the robust relationship between NIMASA

and the Nigerian Navy, stating the need for continuous information sharing.

He also added that it would aid daily operations towards ensuring a safer and secured maritime sector.

He said he was supporting the position of Jamoh on zero tolerance for piracy on the nation’s waterways.

Daji buttressed that the Navy was ready to tackle the issues head-on, for the overall good of the sector.

He, however, sought the cooperation of the NIMASA hydrography unit, especially in the area of standard charting of the Nigerian waters as well as mapping out the wrecks.

Daji, again noted such move would go a long way in ensuring unhindered navigation.

Editing by ‘Biodun Soyele