Naval Officers from 20 Countries Visit NIMASA C41 Center for Maritime Security Cooperation

Naval Officers from 20 Countries Visit NIMASA C41 Center for Maritime Security Cooperation

By prince Benson Davies

The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) recently hosted a knowledge-sharing engagement with naval officers from 20 countries, currently participating in the Siren Course onboard the LHD TONNERRE. The visit aimed to strengthen maritime security cooperation and deepen understanding of how Maritime Administrations operate within the framework of the Yaoundé Architecture for Maritime Safety and Security in West and Central Africa.

Key Highlights of the Visit

– The team, led by the Defence Attaché at the French Embassy, Colonel Stéphane Oseo, was impressed by the model partnership between the Nigerian Navy and NIMASA, particularly in enhancing security coordination in the Gulf of Guinea.
– The 40 participants engaged with NIMASA’s Deep Blue Project officials on strategies for maritime domain awareness and inter-agency coordination.
– The team also visited the Regional Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (RMRCC), where they were briefed on Nigeria’s operational procedures for maritime search and rescue coordination.

Commitment to Regional Collaboration

The Director General of NIMASA, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, represented by the Director of Marine Environment Management, Mr. Heaky Dimowo, reaffirmed the Agency’s commitment to sustained regional collaboration for improved maritime safety and security across the Gulf of Guinea.

Strengthening Maritime Security

The visit demonstrates NIMASA’s dedication to enhancing maritime security cooperation and its position as a leader in the region. By sharing knowledge and best practices, NIMASA and its partners can work together to address maritime security challenges and promote a safer and more secure maritime environment.