NIMASA Eyes Deep Blue Expansion, Seeks Navy Synergy For Gulf Of Guinea Security

Following the resounding success of its maritime security initiative, the Deep Blue project—which has transformed security across the Gulf of Guinea and earned international acclaim—the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) is exploring ways to expand it for even greater sustainability and reach.

This was revealed by NIMASA’s Director General, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, during a strategic visit to the Chief of Naval Staff,CNS Vice Admiral Idi Abass, at Naval Headquarters in Abuja on Thursday.

Osagie Edward, Deputy Director/Head of Public Relations at NIMASA, shared details in a statement, saying Mobereola praised the Navy’s seamless collaboration with NIMASA, congratulated the CNS—who previously served as Maritime Guard Commander under the agency and called for deepened partnership.

He said “It is important that we continue our partnership and strengthen our relationship,” stressing that . “Our purpose here is to congratulate you, and to discuss the benefits of the Deep Blue Project; how to sustain it, expand it, and increase its impact on the Gulf of Guinea.”

He added confidence in support from the President, the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, and the Navy, as they prepare proposals for key enhancements.

Mobereola highlighted the project’s global resonance, noting commendations from the International Maritime Organisation (IMO).

He noted that “The Deep Blue Project is vital and countries around Africa and some other parts of the world are coming to copy our model. The IMO is asking how a civilian organisation was able to achieve this feat. It is therefore important that we continue to collaborate and do even better for greater sustainability.”

The DG also congratulated Rear Admiral Musa Katagum, Chief of Operations at the Nigerian Navy, on joining NIMASA’s governing board as the Navy’s representative.

Vice Admiral Abass welcomed the delegation, commended NIMASA’s maritime contributions and support to the Navy, and emphasized synergy.

“Part of my command’s objective is to work in synergy with other agencies to achieve our goal as a country. We complement each other. We have no option rather than collaborate and synergise.”

He raised concerns about revisiting the 2007 MoU between NIMASA and the Navy, sought Navy involvement in vessel repairs, hydrographic surveys, and charting, and requested NIMASA’s aid for wreck removal ahead of the Navy’s 70th anniversary celebrations with foreign ships.

Abass also praised NIMASA’s recent launch of the Cabotage Vessel Financing Fund (CVFF) application portal and its progress toward fund disbursement.