– as it takes delivery of additional two from Spain.
By fabulous reports
The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) said it is eager to deploy its state-of-the-art, fast intervention boats on Nigerian waters to enhance the safety and security of lives and crafts.
The eagerness of the agency stemmed from the latest addition to its array of security boats which it secured from Spain.
Under the former administration of the agency, Spain built and delivered five such boats while the European country delivered an additional two recently.
An elated incumbent Director General of NIMASA, Dr Dayo Mobereola said immediate deployment of these boats was his prior.
While playing host to the Spanish Ambassador to Nigeria, Juan Ignacio Sell in his magnificent Lagos office this Monday, April 7th, 2024, Dr Mobereola said that NIMASA management under his leadership will fast-track the deployment of the patrol Boats as soon as possible.
He also welcomed the partnership with Spain noting that security in the maritime domain cannot be done in silos.
“Maritime security cannot be done in silos by any country.
” Collaboration plays a major role in achieving safety and security in the maritime domain.
“We appreciate the gesture from the Spanish Government and we will explore areas of collaboration, particularly in terms of both human and infrastructural development.
” We will work out the logistics so that these vessels can be deployed immediately.
” I am confident that they will be instrumental not just to enhance security in Nigerian waters, but also shore up revenue accountable to the Federal Government as Port calls by vessels will increase, and Fishing in Nigerian Coastal waters will become a major industry in Nigeria.
Earlier, the Spanish Envoy has declared that the Spanish Government is desirous to deepen cooperation with Nigeria through further collaboration with the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, (NIMASA).
“This is one more milestone in the cooperation between Spain and Nigeria for maritime security.
“The Spanish government sees Nigeria as prime in attaining security in the Gulf of Guinea. We also have a naval ship present in the Gulf of Guinea to enhance security.
“The message from our President back home is for the Embassy to seek more partnership with Nigeria in the Maritime Sector.
” The creation of the Marine and Blue Economy Ministry by President Bola Tinubu is a sign that this administration is committed to harnessing the Ocean potential and Spain is ready to support Nigeria all the way.
” This is why I came from Abuja to see the DG”, he said.
The 8-passenger, 13.2-meter-long Security Boat with a fuel capacity of 3000 liters is fully air-conditioned with a range of 500 Nautical Miles.
They are powered by two 2,300 Horsepower outboard engines with a maximum speed of 45 Knots and 25 Knots at cruising speed.
NIMASA now has seven fast intervention bulletproof Aresa boats to be deployed soon.
