Over the weekend, the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) skill acquisition centre in Zaria, Kaduna State and a twin lecture theatre donated by the agency to Kaduna State University were officially commissioned by the former Minister of Transportation, Eng. Mu’azu Sambo.
The skill acquisition centre, situated in Zaria, provides learning facilities for youths and women, including electrical, mechanical, sewing, technical, welding facilities, among others.
During the event, the minister emphasised that these projects are part of the Federal Government’s efforts, led by former President Muhammadu Buhari, to enhance education as a fundamental requirement for economic development. He took the opportunity to commend the initiative of the director-general of NIMASA, Dr. Jamoh and his management team.
Jamoh highlighted that the skill acquisition centre in Zaria is one of several centres established across the six geopolitical zones of the country. He also revealed that higher institutions in all geopolitical zones are benefiting from NIMASA’s Corporate Social Responsibility projects.
“Our goal as an agency is to ensure that young Nigerians acquire the necessary skills to become self-reliant and productive. We are also developing similar centres in Niger, Lagos, Anambra, Gombe, Bayelsa and Rivers states. This initiative aims to combat land-based insecurity, which will have a positive impact on maritime security,” he stated.
Representing the outgoing Governor of Kaduna State, Malam Nasir El-Rufai, the deputy governor, Dr. Hadiza Balarabe expressed the state government’s commitment to education and expressed gratitude to NIMASA for completing the project within a short timeframe.
The Emir of Zazzau, Amb. Ahmad Bamalli, commended NIMASA for choosing the Emirate council as the location for the project and assured that the centre would be properly maintained for the benefit of the people.
Under the leadership of Jamoh, NIMASA has remained focused on ensuring that the Nigerian maritime sector occupies its rightful place among other maritime nations. Recently, the agency commissioned five enforcement boats, four staff ferries and an ultramodern world-class search and rescue-based clinic. Additionally, a permanent building housing the agency’s Abuja office was commissioned.
