President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed his commitment to growing Nigeria’s maritime sector and positioning the country as West and Central Africa’s cargo hub.

Mr Tinubu made the commitment when he received the director-general of NIMASA, Dayo Mobereola, at the State House, Abuja, to discuss maritime sector development.

This is contained in a statement signed by a deputy director and head of public relations, NIMASA, Osagie Edward, made available on Thursday in Lagos.

Mr Mobereola briefed the president on NIMASA’s progress over the last two years and highlighted challenges confronting the nation’s maritime industry.

Mr Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to developing the maritime sector and increasing its contribution to the nation’s gross domestic product.

He said the creation of the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy was a deliberate step toward unlocking opportunities and growing the blue economy.

The president commended NIMASA for its achievements and urged the agency’s management to sustain momentum in regulation, safety and capacity development.

He charged Mr Mobereola and his team not to relent in efforts to reposition the agency for greater efficiency and global competitiveness. 

(NAN)