The House Committee on Maritime Safety, Education, and Administration has pledged its commitment to revising outdated legislation that no longer aligns with the newly established Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, ensuring that Nigeria’s maritime sector remains progressive.
Hon. Uduak Odudoh, Deputy Chairman of the House Committee, made this commitment during a sensitization workshop hosted by the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, NIMASA, on Friday. The workshop aimed to update lawmakers on the principles of the Blue Economy, with the theme “Harnessing the Nation’s Blue Economy: A Legislative Approach.”
Mrs. Jean Chiazor Anishere, a maritime lawyer and Senior Advocate of Nigeria emphasized the necessity of amending existing laws governing NIMASA and other regulatory bodies in the maritime sector to effectively operate under the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy. Anishere highlighted the obsolescence of current laws, such as the Cabotage Act, the NIMASA Act, and the Fisheries and Aquaculture Regulation, stressing that these laws impede the realization of the blue economy’s potential.
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Anishere proposed the creation of a Blue Economy Framework to guide Nigeria in maximizing its blue economy potential, urging the National Assembly to enact legislation to support this initiative.
Mrs. Anishere also pointed out limitations within the Cabotage Act, citing the lack of a shipping line and inadequate funding for indigenous ship owners. She advocated for the implementation of the Cabotage Vessel Financial Fund to empower local ship owners and facilitate the growth of the blue economy.
Furthermore, Anishere highlighted discrepancies in the NIMASA Act, noting the need to review the Act to align with the mandate of the Ministry of Transportation under the marine and blue economy portfolio.
Dr. Bashir Jamoh, Director General of NIMASA, briefed lawmakers on the agency’s achievements in maritime security and safety, including efforts to combat piracy and develop seafarers. He announced plans to submit the Suppression of Piracy and Other Maritime Offenses Act (SPOMO Act 2019) for amendments.
In discussions with journalists, Dr. Jamoh emphasized the importance of enhancing legislators’ understanding of their role in lawmaking and oversight. Odudoh expressed the committee’s appreciation for the workshop and its intention to conduct further inspections of NIMASA facilities.
Lawmakers commended Dr. Jamoh’s leadership and expressed support for extending his tenure as DG of NIMASA. They affirmed their commitment to revising obsolete laws and providing necessary support to advance the blue economy agenda.
Hon. Wale Oke emphasized the transformative potential of the blue economy in revitalizing Nigeria’s economy but called for greater awareness and utilization of its opportunities. He urged NIMASA to prioritize the recruitment and promotion of younger staff to ensure continuity and innovation within the agency.
