The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) management has officially transferred the leased site at the Continental Shipyard Limited (CSL) of the Nigerian Ports Authority to its technical partner, Melsmore.
The purpose of this transfer is for Melsmore to collaborate with the Nigerian Ports Authority’s management to finalise site arrangements, including conducting risk assessments, in preparation for the relocation of the modular floating dock to the continental Shipyard. This move marks the beginning of full-scale operations.
In a joint decision, NIMASA and its technical partners, Melsmore, have extended an invitation to Damen Shipyard, the manufacturers of the floating dock, to participate in the re-establishment process of the dockyard. This joint effort aims to expedite the deployment of the Floating Dock, minimising any delays.
During a discussion with Melsmore officials, the director-general of NIMASA, Dr. Bashir Jamoh emphasised the importance of adapting the action plan according to the current circumstances. He stressed the need for well-defined deliverables, key performance indicators and a clear timeline.
“The Nigerian populace eagerly anticipates the deployment of the modular floating dock. This national asset holds the potential to enhance maritime trade, job creation, skill development, and training opportunities for various maritime institutions in Nigeria. It also attracts foreign investment, curbs capital flight, and generates revenue. We envision students from institutions like the Maritime Academy of Nigeria and the Maritime University Okerenkoko participating in practical training sessions,” stated Jamoh.
The managing director of Melsmore, Mr. Danny Fuchs expressed gratitude to NIMASA for entrusting the company with such a pivotal project. Fuchs reassured NIMASA of the company’s preparedness to oversee the relocation of the floating dock from the naval dockyard to the Continental Shipyard Limited (CSL).
Recall that the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) recently allocated specific zones at the Continental Shipyard for the Modular Floating Dock’s operations. These designated areas include the dolphin jetty, adjacent slipway waterfront, administrative facilities, construction and mechanical workshops, civil maintenance workshop, among other spaces.
The undertaking will be executed through a Public Private Partnership (PPP) arrangement.
