Nigeria and Liberia have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening maritime cooperation, regional integration, and capacity development as part of broader efforts to unlock Africa’s maritime potential and advance the continent’s Blue Economy agenda.
The commitment was restated by the Director-General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dayo Mobereola, during a meeting with Liberia’s Honorary Consul in Lagos, Dapo Akinosun, at the agency’s headquarters in Lagos.
Mobereola described the engagement as a reflection of the longstanding relationship between Nigeria and Liberia, particularly in the maritime sector, emphasizing that stronger collaboration among African countries is essential for driving economic growth, expanding maritime opportunities, and strengthening regional integration.
According to him, enhanced cooperation between both nations would support capacity building, promote maritime development, and create employment opportunities for young Africans within the global shipping and maritime industry.
“The time has come for African nations to upscale maritime collaboration. The partnership between Nigeria and Liberia will help us build capacity, strengthen regional cooperation and create opportunities for African youths within the global maritime industry,” Mobereola said.
The NIMASA boss also highlighted the importance of sea-time training and practical exposure for young maritime professionals, noting that such initiatives are crucial to preparing African youths to compete effectively in the international maritime sector.
He further commended the Liberian government for supporting Nigeria’s successful bid for a Category C seat at the International Maritime Organization, describing the gesture as a testament to the strong relationship between both countries.
Speaking during the visit, Akinosun said his mission was to further strengthen the enduring ties between Nigeria and Liberia while identifying new areas for collaboration in maritime administration, safety, training, and trade promotion.
He described the maritime sector as a critical driver of economic growth and regional development and praised NIMASA’s efforts to reposition Nigeria’s maritime industry for sustainable growth and investment.
“Nigeria has demonstrated genuine commitment to maritime partnership and regional growth. Liberia looks forward to deeper collaboration with NIMASA in maritime administration, safety, capacity development and trade promotion for the advancement of Africa’s Blue Economy,” Akinosun stated.
The renewed partnership comes amid growing efforts by African countries to leverage maritime resources, expand trade, and strengthen regional cooperation under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) framework.
