FG Inaugurates NIMASA, NIWA, Governing Boards

• Harps on Upholding National Interest

The Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, His Excellency Adegboyega Oyetola, CON, on Wednesday 2nd July 2025, 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 at the Ministry’s Conference Room in Abuja.

Speaking at the event, Minister Oyetola described the inauguration as a significant milestone in the ongoing effort by the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, to reposition the maritime sec- tor 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. He reaffirmed President Tinubu’s commitment to unlocking the immense potential of Nigeria’s maritime domain for economic growth, environmental sustainability, and national development.

The Minister 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 Honourable 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. Minister 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.