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The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, CON, has formally inaugurated the Governing Boards of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) and the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) in a dual ceremony held in Abuja.
Speaking at the event, on Wednesday, Oyetola described the inauguration as a significant milestone in the ongoing effort by the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to reposition the maritime sector for maximum national impact.
He said the exercise represented not merely a routine constitutional process but a vital step in consolidating the structures that will drive the marine and blue economy in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda.
The Minister, however, reaffirmed President Tinubu’s commitment to unlocking the immense potential of Nigeria’s maritime domain for economic growth, environmental sustainability, and national development.
Oyetola highlighted Nigeria’s strategic maritime position along the Gulf of Guinea and an expansive 850-kilometre coastline, noting the country’s potential to benefit substantially from activities such as shipping, fisheries, marine biotechnology, offshore energy, and coastal tourism.
He recalled that it was in recognition of these opportunities that President Tinubu, in 2023, established the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy to provide focused leadership, regulation, and promotion of the country’s ocean-based economy.
Addressing the newly appointed members of the NIMASA Board, the minister outlined the critical mandate of the agency, which includes maritime safety, labour regulation, marine environmental protection, and capacity development.
He emphasised that the Board’s role is to formulate policies and provide oversight for the Agency’s operations without interfering in its day-to-day management.
Oyetola reiterated President Tinubu’s clear directive that the responsibilities of governing boards are strictly non-executive and policy-focused. He urged the Board to operate in the national interest, with integrity, professionalism, and transparency.
The Minister then proceeded to officially inaugurate the NIMASA Board, chaired by Yusuf Abubakar. Other members include Babatunde Bombata, representing the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy; Emmanuel Nosakhare Igbinosun; Rear Admiral P.C. Nwatu, representing the Nigerian Navy; Yinusa Yakubu; Fedelis Lorkoso Agbir; Iroghama Blessing Ogbeifun; and Dr Dayo Mobereola, the Director General. Other members of the Board include Chudi Offodile, Executive Director, Finance and Administration; Fatai Taye Adeyemi, Executive Director, Operations; and Jibril Abba, Executive Director, Maritime Labour and Cabotage Service.
In his response on behalf of the NIMASA Board, the Chairman, Yusuf Abubakar, expressed deep appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the opportunity to serve.
He described the appointment as not just a privilege but a call to national duty and also thanked Minister Oyetola for his leadership and the confidence he reposed in the board.
He assured that the Board would work closely with the NIMASA management team to foster transparency, innovation, and professionalism, which is in line with the strategic vision of the federal government.
Oyetola equally reminded the NIWA Board that their role is to provide strategic policy guidance and supervision, in accordance with the NIWA Act, while operational execution remains the responsibility of the Managing Director and the management team.
He drew attention to both the NIWA Act and relevant sections of the Public Service Rules and Public Procurement Act, which underscore the distinction between governance and management.
He urged the Board to approach its duties with discipline, professionalism, and a clear understanding of institutional boundaries, adding that national interest and development must guide every decision.
He formally inaugurated the NIWA Board, which is chaired by Musa Sarki Adar. Other members include Bola Oyebamiji, who also serves as the Managing Director; Hussaini Shettima; Jeminiwa Adewale Charles; Dr Ndidi Jenifer Ozegbe; Prof. Sadiq Z. Abubakar; Surv. Kunle Olugbemiro; Capt. Tajudeen Alao; Dele Kelvin Oye; Capt. Jerome Angwunwe; and Hoplyn Euore Ayu.
Speaking on behalf of the NIWA Board, the Chairman, Musa Sarki Adar, expressed appreciation to President Tinubu for the trust placed in them and praised the minister for his guidance and pledged the commitment of the Board to give their best in the service of the nation.
He promised that the NIWA Board would work harmoniously with the management and operate within its mandate to ensure the Authority fulfils its role in facilitating inland waterways transportation and economic connectivity.
