‘Collaboration Critical to Growth of Maritime Sector’

The Director General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) Dr. Dakuku Peterside has stressed that collaboration among stakeholders is key to the development of the maritime sector and growth of the Nigerian economy.

Also, he called for more female participation in the Nigerian maritime industry, adding that their contribution is critical to the development of the sector for the growth of the economy.

Speaking at the 2017 Business Luncheon of Women’s International Shipping and Trading Association (WISTA), with the theme: ‘Road Infrastructure Development and Maintenance of Ports Artery Roads as Panacea for National Development,’ held in Lagos, the NIMASA DG said that the growth of the sector should be all inclusive. He stated that the Nigerian maritime industry is in dire need of all collaborations it can garner for economic benefit.

Peterside, who was represented by the agency’s Director of Special Duties, Lami Tumaka urged women to bring to bear their influence in supporting the federal government as it strives to put the necessary infrastructure in place for port development.

According to Peterside, “We know the strength and commitment of women, we urge you to collaborate with us as we continue to provide infrastructure that will ensure the ease of doing maritime business.”

He also noted that the agency has continued to come up with policies that will encourage women in maritime, adding that the national seafarers development programme, an initiative of the agency towards arresting the dearth of trained and certified seafarers, give support that will encourage female participation in shipping.

He further lauded the initiatives of WISTA like the “girls go to sea” programme of the association which complements the agency’s efforts in building capacity for the sector.

Also speaking at the event, the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC), Hassan Bello said the agencies under the Ministry of Transportation are working assiduously to ensure that the Apapa Port access roads are fixed.

He said that very soon the impact of the activities of the agencies would be felt.

The President of WISTA Mrs. Mary Madu Hamman on her part said that the association, which has women in various sectors of the maritime industry including the ministries, departments and agencies will continue to do their best to support the government to develop infrastructure and grow the maritime sector.