The Director General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dr. Dayo Mobereola, has said Nigeria has capacity to repair and also build vessels.
However, speaking during the inspection of the ongoing maintenance work on the Deep Blue vessel, also known as DB Lagos at Nigerdock, Snake Island integrated Free Zone, Lagos, he reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s shipbuilding and repair capacity expressed satisfaction with the progress made and described the project as a clear demonstration of Nigeria’s capability to handle sophisticated ship repairs and construction.
LEADERSHIP reports that the DB Lagos is a special mission vessel used for maritime surveillance and national security operations. The vessel plays a vital role in combating oil theft, smuggling, illegal immigration, and other maritime crimes within Nigeria’s waters.
“What I am seeing here today is a testimony to the fact that we have the ability not only to repair but also to build here in Nigeria,” he stated.
He further emphasised that the inspection aligns with the vision of the minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, who has prioritised the development of local capacity in shipbuilding and repairs.
“We at NIMASA are demonstrating our belief in this vision by maintaining our own vessels here,” Dr. Mobereola added.
This visit underscores NIMASA’s drive to promote indigenous maritime infrastructure, enhance national security, and advance sustainable growth in Nigeria’s maritime sector.
Over the years, Nigeria’s maritime industry has faced challenges such as piracy, oil theft, illegal fishing, and smuggling. Addressing these issues is crucial for national security, economic stability, and the growth of the blue economy.
To combat maritime crimes and enhance security, Nigeria launched the Deep Blue Project, a multi-agency initiative led by NIMASA. The project aims to secure the country’s waters through advanced surveillance, rapid response, and the deployment of specialised assets, including air, land, and sea platforms.
Nigeria has relied heavily on foreign shipyards for vessel repairs and construction, leading to capital flight and limited development of indigenous technical expertise. In recent years, the government has prioritized building local capacity in shipbuilding and repairs to foster self-reliance, create jobs, and retain economic value within the country. The establishment and upgrading of facilities like Nigerdock at Snake Island Integrated Free Zone in Lagos are part of this strategy.
