The Nigerian Navy has called for enhanced collaboration with the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) to strengthen hydrographic operations and ensure safer navigation in Nigerian waters.

Rear Admiral Abdullahi Mustapha, Flag Officer Commanding, Western Naval Command (FOC-WNC), made the call during a familiarisation visit to NIMASA’s headquarters in Lagos. He commended the longstanding partnership between the Navy and NIMASA, noting its positive impact on maritime security.

Mustapha highlighted that integrating NIMASA’s C4i Centre with the Navy’s Falcon Eye system would improve maritime domain awareness and security operations. He also praised NIMASA’s provision of platforms under the Deep Blue Project, which the Navy operates to safeguard national waters.

The Admiral emphasized the capabilities of two newly acquired hydrographic vessels, NNS Lana and NNS Ochuzor, which can accurately locate wrecks. He noted that their deployment would enhance NIMASA’s wreck removal operations and raise safety standards in the maritime sector.

Responding, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, Director General of NIMASA, stressed that maritime security is vital to President Bola Tinubu’s economic diversification agenda. He said safe and secure territorial waters give investors confidence to operate in the maritime sector and are central to the growth of Nigeria’s Blue Economy.

Dr. Mobereola also acknowledged the support of Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, for his role in advancing the sector. Both NIMASA and the Navy reaffirmed their commitment to maritime safety, navigational security, and the deployment of advanced technology to support national economic objectives.