News

Oyetola Launches New Maritime Boards, Calls for National Commitment to Blue Economy Growth; See Names

Published by Tope Fakinlede on July 2nd, 2025.

Oyetola Launches New Maritime Boards, Calls for National Commitment to Blue Economy Growth; See Names

Oyetola Swears in NIMASA and NIWA Governing Boards, Urges Commitment to National Priorities

On Wednesday, July 2, 2025, the Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, His Excellency Adegboyega Oyetola, CON, officially commissioned the Governing Boards of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) and the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) in a joint ceremony held at the Ministry’s Conference Room in Abuja.

Minister Oyetola described the inauguration as a pivotal development in the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR’s vision to revitalize Nigeria’s maritime sector. He emphasized that this event is not just a constitutional formality but a crucial step toward strengthening the institutional framework that will spearhead growth in the marine and blue economy under the Renewed Hope Agenda. The Minister reiterated the President’s dedication to harnessing Nigeria’s maritime assets for economic expansion, environmental protection, and national progress.

Highlighting Nigeria’s strategic location along the Gulf of Guinea and its extensive 850-kilometer coastline, Minister Oyetola pointed out the vast opportunities in shipping, fisheries, marine biotechnology, offshore energy, and coastal tourism. He recalled that President Tinubu’s establishment of the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy in 2023 was intended to provide specialized leadership and promote Nigeria’s ocean-based economic potential.

Turning to the NIMASA Board members, the Minister outlined their crucial role in ensuring maritime safety, regulating labor standards, protecting the marine environment, and building capacity. He clarified that the Board’s function is policy formulation and oversight, with operational management being distinct responsibilities. Minister Oyetola stressed President Tinubu’s directive that Governing Boards must remain non-executive and focus on governance. He called on the Board to carry out their duties with professionalism, transparency, and an unwavering commitment to the nation.

Minister Oyetola then officially inaugurated the NIMASA Board, chaired by Yusuf Abubakar. Board members include Babatunde Bombata (Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy), Emmanuel Nosakhare Igbinosun, Rear Admiral P.C. Nwatu (Nigerian Navy), Arc. Yinusa Yakubu, Fedelis Lorkoso Agbir, Iroghama Blessing Ogbeifun, Dr. Dayo Mobereola (Director General), Hon. Chudi Offodile (Executive Director, Finance and Administration), Engr. Fatai Taye Adeyemi (Executive Director, Operations), and Mr. Jibril Abba (Executive Director, Maritime Labour and Cabotage Service).

Responding on behalf of the Board, Chairman Yusuf Abubakar expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for the trust placed in them, framing their appointment as a solemn national responsibility. He also commended Minister Oyetola for his leadership and assured that the Board would collaborate closely with NIMASA’s management to promote transparency, innovation, and professionalism aligned with federal government goals.

He pledged full support for the Minister’s policy directions and committed the Board to working diligently towards a safe and thriving maritime environment for Nigeria.

The Minister also inaugurated the NIWA Governing Board, describing it as a vital component of Nigeria’s maritime and transportation framework. He noted the Board’s critical role in guiding infrastructure development, regulating inland water activities, enhancing water transport, and fostering regional economic integration.

Minister Oyetola reminded the NIWA Board of their responsibility to offer strategic policy oversight in line with the NIWA Act, while day-to-day operations remain under the Managing Director and management team’s purview. He emphasized adherence to the NIWA Act, Public Service Rules, and Public Procurement Act, highlighting the clear division between governance and management. He urged the Board to carry out its duties with discipline, professionalism, and a focus on national interest.

The NIWA Board, chaired by Hon. Musa Sarki Adar, was officially sworn in. Other members include Mr. Bola Oyebamiji (Managing Director), Mr. Hussaini Shettima, Mr. Jeminiwa Adewale Charles, Dr. Ndidi Jenifer Ozegbe, Engr. Prof. Sadiq Z. Abubakar, Surv. Kunle Olugbemiro, Capt. Tajudeen Alao, Mr. Dele Kelvin Oye, Capt. Jerome Angwunwe, and Hon. Hoplyn Euore Ayu.

Chairman Adar expressed thanks to President Tinubu for the confidence shown in the Board and lauded Minister Oyetola’s stewardship. He assured that the Board would work harmoniously with management to fulfill NIWA’s mandate, ensuring efficient inland waterways transportation and economic connectivity.

Concluding the event, Minister Oyetola reaffirmed the Ministry’s support for both Boards and expressed confidence in their capacity to serve with integrity and dedication. He acknowledged the challenges ahead but emphasized the great opportunity to drive impactful and lasting progress. The Minister wished the Boards success and urged them to lead with clear purpose and unwavering dedication to national development.

Signed:

Dr. Bolaji Akinola

Special Adviser, Media and Communications to the Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy

Bukar Dipcharima House

Federal Capital Territory, Abuja