The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) and the Nigerian Navy have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to provide a framework for enhanced collaboration in the promotion and maintenance of maritime security and the effective implementation of the Suppression of Piracy and Other Maritime Offences (SPOMO) Act, International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code and other relevant maritime laws and regulations within NIMASA’s mandate.

The agency’s Deputy Director/Head Public Relations, Osagie Edward, on Wednesday stated that the renewed strategic partnership was to strengthen maritime security, enhance safety and deepen coordinated enforcement across Nigeria’s maritime domain.

He noted that the MoU was signed at the Nigerian Navy Headquarters, Abuja, by the Director General of NIMASA, Dr Dayo Mobereola, and the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas.

According to him, the renewed agreement marks a significant milestone in the longstanding relationship between both institutions and represents the first formal renewal of their partnership since the original MoU was signed in 2007.

At the signing ceremony, the NIMASA Director General, Dr Dayo Mobereola, commended the commitment of the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr Adegboyega Oyetola, to strengthening inter-agency collaboration as a key driver of maritime security and the development of Nigeria’s Blue Economy.

He added that the MoU would provide a stronger institutional framework for both organisations to discharge their respective statutory mandates while consolidating the gains already recorded in securing Nigeria’s maritime domain, saying that it would enhance the achievement of President Bola Tinubu’s vision for the Blue Economy.

According to him, the agreement is also designed to address emerging maritime security challenges through improved coordination, information sharing and operational cooperation.

Mobereola said: “As we renew this partnership today, I urge our respective teams to ensure that the spirit of this agreement translates into practical and measurable outcomes.”

Also, he expressed appreciation to the Chief of the Naval Staff and the Nigerian Navy for their continued support and commitment to the renewal of the partnership.

The Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, described the signing as a milestone in the enduring relationship between the Nigerian Navy and NIMASA.

He noted that the renewed MoU contained important additions aimed at strengthening the response to the evolving nature of maritime security challenges.

He explained: “One of the key provisions is the integration of the Deep Blue Project into the collaborative framework, providing a stronger basis for cooperation between the Nigerian Navy’s Maritime Guard Command and the project.”

He also highlighted the introduction of a joint reporting protocol for communication and information sharing during operations, which he said would facilitate timely decision-making and a more coordinated response to maritime incidents.

Vice Admiral Abbas further welcomed provisions for greater institutional engagement, including an annual conference to enhance collaboration, review progress and address emerging challenges.

He added: “Whether we like it or not, the water is where we get whatever we are getting, our revenue, everything and even the trade we engage in large percentages is done through the water. So this institution has to be very strong.”

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