The director-general of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dr. Dayo Mobereola has emphasised the importance of adopting the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model for the development of Nigeria’s maritime infrastructure.
He stated that the sector is capital-intensive and requires significant private-sector investment to reach its full potential.
During a meeting with the director-general of the Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC), Dr. Jobson Ewalefoh, Mobereola called for the commission’s increased involvement in attracting private investors to boost the sector’s capacity.
“We appreciate the responsiveness of ICRC management, but we need to recognise that government funds alone cannot build the infrastructure required in the maritime sector. The private sector, both local and international, must be involved,” Mobereola said.
He also stressed the need for the ICRC to develop PPP-based business models that would attract private investors. He added that NIMASA would continue to rely on ICRC’s support to drive its PPP projects and deliver efficient services to stakeholders.
Ewalefoh echoed the NIMASA DG’s sentiments, highlighting the critical role the maritime sector plays in Nigeria’s economy. He noted that adopting the PPP model would bring in additional funding and technical expertise from the private sector, accelerating the sector’s development.
“Time is of the essence. Our country needs extensive funding for infrastructure, and we must create an enabling environment for growth. The priority should be on service delivery, not revenue generation. People are willing to pay when they receive the right services,” Ewalefoh explained.
The PPP model, widely used across the world, has proven to be a viable approach to driving government policies that promote development and economic growth. NIMASA has consistently embraced collaboration and partnership through PPP initiatives to ensure the continued growth and development of the Nigerian maritime sector.
As Nigeria seeks to improve its maritime infrastructure, the focus remains on creating sustainable partnerships to transform the sector and enhance its contribution to the nation’s economy.
