Adegboyega Oyetola, the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, has formally inaugurated the Governing Boards for both the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) and the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA). During the ceremony, the Minister specifically charged the newly appointed members to prioritize the paramount national interest in their duties.
The inauguration, a dual event, took place on Wednesday at the Ministry’s Conference Room in Abuja, as confirmed in a statement released by his Media Adviser, Bolaji Akinola. Minister Oyetola underscored the critical importance of these appointments, describing them as a pivotal milestone within President Bola Tinubu’s broader strategy. This strategy aims to fundamentally reposition Nigeria’s maritime sector, steering it towards significant national transformation and growth.
The minister said the inauguration was not routine, but a vital step to strengthen marine and blue economy structures under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
He reaffirmed the President’s commitment to unlocking the maritime sector’s potential for economic growth, sustainability, and national development.
Oyetola noted Nigeria’s strategic Gulf of Guinea location and 850-kilometre coastline as assets for shipping, fisheries, energy, marine biotechnology, and coastal tourism.
He recalled that President Tinubu created the Marine and Blue Economy Ministry in 2023 to regulate and promote Nigeria’s ocean-based economy.
Addressing NIMASA Board members, he outlined their mandate: maritime safety, labour regulation, marine environment protection, and human capacity development.
The minister stressed the Board must provide policy oversight without interfering in the Agency’s daily management.
He reiterated that governing boards are policy-making bodies, not executive management teams.
Oyetola urged the Board to act with integrity, transparency, professionalism, and commitment to national interest.
He then inaugurated the NIMASA Board, chaired by Yusuf Abubakar. Other members include Babatunde Bombata, representing the Marine and Blue Economy Ministry.
The list also includes Emmanuel Nosakhare Igbinosun, Rear Admiral P.C. Nwatu of the Nigerian Navy, and Yinusa Yakubu.
Other members are Fidelis Lorkoso Agbir, Iroghama Blessing Ogbeifun, and Dr Dayo Mobereola, NIMASA’s Director General.
Also on the Board are Chudi Offodile, Executive Director (Finance and Administration); Fatai Taye Adeyemi (Operations); and Jibril Abba (Labour and Cabotage Services).
Responding on behalf of the Board, Chairman Yusuf Abubakar thanked President Tinubu for the opportunity to serve.
He called the appointment a privilege and a call to national duty.
Abubakar also appreciated the minister’s leadership and expressed the Board’s gratitude.
He pledged collaboration with NIMASA’s management to promote transparency, innovation, and professionalism in line with Federal Government policy.
He affirmed the Board’s full alignment with the Minister’s policy direction for a secure and prosperous maritime sector.
Oyetola also inaugurated NIWA’s Governing Board, describing it as a key pillar in Nigeria’s maritime and transport structure.
He said the new Board was crucial for driving infrastructure, regulating water transport, and fostering regional economic integration.
The minister reminded the NIWA Board that their responsibility was policy guidance and supervision, not operational management.
He referenced the NIWA Act and Public Service Rules, which separate governance from daily administration.
He urged the Board to work professionally, respect institutional boundaries, and uphold national development goals.
Oyetola formally inaugurated the NIWA Board, chaired by Mr Musa Sarki Adar. Mr Bola Oyebamiji serves as Managing Director.
Other members include Hussaini Shettima, Jeminiwa Adewale Charles, Dr Ndidi Jenifer Ozegbe, and Prof. Sadiq Abubakar.
Also on the Board are Kunle Olugbemiro, Capt. Tajudeen Alao, Mr Dele Kelvin Oye, Capt. Jerome Angwunwe, and Hoplyn Euore Ayu.
Speaking on behalf of the NIWA Board, Chairman Musa Adar thanked the President for his confidence.
He praised the minister’s guidance and promised the Board’s dedication to national service.
Adar pledged cooperation with NIWA management to fulfil its inland water transport and economic integration mandate.
The minister expressed full ministry support for both Boards and confidence in their ability to serve with honour.
He noted the task ahead was demanding but also an opportunity to deliver meaningful, lasting impact.
Oyetola wished them a successful tenure and charged them to serve with focus and national commitment.
