Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Mr Adegboyega Oyetola, has charged the newly inaugurated Governing Board of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) to ensure their decisions are guided by national interest.
Oyetola gave the charge on Wednesday in Abuja during the formal inauguration of the board.
He stated that the board’s formation was in line with President Bola Tinubu’s vision to reform key institutions, enhance trade facilitation, and unlock the potential of Nigeria’s marine and blue economy.
StarReporters reports that the board is chaired by Mr Yusuf Abubakar, with members including Mr Babatunde Bombata, Mr Emmanuel Igbinosun, Rear-Admiral Patrick Nwatu, Mr Yinusa Yakubu, Mr Fidelis Lorkoso, Ms Iroghama Blessing-Ogbeifun, Dr Dayo Mobereola, Mr Chudi Offodie, Mr Fatai Taye-Adeyemi and Mr Jibril Abba.
According to the minister, the board is expected to improve governance within NIMASA and ensure Nigeria capitalises on the vast economic prospects in shipping, coastal tourism, offshore energy, fisheries, and marine biotechnology.
“This bold initiative aims to provide dedicated focus and strategic leadership in the development, regulation, and promotion of the country’s ocean-based economy. I must emphasise that the decisions and policies of this board must be guided by national interest and directed towards the betterment of Nigeria and the advancement of our economy,” he said.
Oyetola noted that board members were expected to provide strategic direction while supporting NIMASA’s management in maintaining high standards of performance.
“Your role is to provide strategic direction; while your duty is to guide, question and uphold the values of transparency, accountability, and national service which this administration is fully committed,” he added.
He cautioned the board against micromanaging the agency, reminding members of its non-executive nature and urging them to refrain from interfering with day-to-day operations.
He assured the board of the ministry’s support, adding that efforts would be made to create a conducive environment for NIMASA to operate efficiently.
Earlier, Mr Olufemi Oloruntola, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, stated that the board’s establishment aimed to reposition NIMASA for better performance and alignment with national economic goals.
“With your appointment, a great deal of trust has been placed in your collective capacity to provide policy direction, oversight, and strategic guidance,” he said.
In his response, Mr Yusuf Abubakar thanked President Tinubu and Minister Oyetola for the opportunity to serve and pledged to work in full alignment with government priorities.
“The task is clear and the board is fully aware and prepared. We are resolute and committed to oversight NIMASA and we will work with the management to foster transparency and enhance performance,” he said.
(NAN)