Korea, Nigeria Synergize On Maritime Capacity Development

…As MWUN Pledge Support For Nigeria’s Bid For IMO Council Seat

BY GBOGBOWA GBOWA

Nigeria and the Republic of Korea has taken further steps at strengthening cooperation for the development of maritime capacity development between both countries.

Above is coming on the heels of a courtesy visit by the Consul General of the Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Nigeria, Mr. Lee Sang-ho, to the Director General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dr. Dayo Mobereola, at the Agency’s headquarters in Lagos.

L-R: Director General, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, NIMASA; Dr. Dayo Mobereola, the Consul General of the Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Nigeria, Lee Sang-ho and the Executive Director, Finance and Administration, NIMASA, Mr. Chudi Offodile in a photograph during a courtesy visit by the Consul General to the headquarters of NIMASA in Lagos.

A release by NIMASA Head of Public Relations, Osagie Edward, FNIPR said the meeting served as a strategic platform to strengthen bilateral ties and explore areas of mutual interest in the maritime domain.

During the engagement, both parties emphasized the importance of maritime capacity development as a catalyst for economic growth and sustainable maritime governance. Mr. Sang-ho reaffirmed Korea’s willingness to support Nigeria in building a skilled maritime workforce, sharing technical expertise, and enhancing institutional knowledge through training programs and exchange initiatives.

Dr. Mobereola expressed appreciation for Korea’s continued partnership and highlighted NIMASA’s commitment to fostering international cooperation that supports Nigeria’s aspirations of becoming a leading maritime nation in Africa. The discussions underscored a shared vision for a stronger, safer, and more efficient maritime industry, driven by skilled professionals and global best practices.

In a related development, the Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN) has pledged its full support for Nigeria’s bid to return to Category C of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council, while commending the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) for its transformative role in maritime security and governance.

Speaking in Lagos over the weekend, MWUN President General, Comrade Francis Bunu, lauded NIMASA’s significant achievements, particularly in combating piracy in the Gulf of Guinea. He noted that the Agency’s efforts have significantly improved safety and stability on Nigerian waters.

MWUN PG, Comrade Bunu

“We now have peace on our waters, and this achievement is commendable. It also enhances regional stability and boosts investor confidence,” Bunu stated, citing NIMASA’s commitment to maritime safety as a key driver of Nigeria’s growing prominence in global maritime affairs.

Comrade Bunu further pledged that MWUN would mobilize support through its international affiliates to advocate for Nigeria’s IMO Council bid, emphasizing that the country has both the expertise and leadership to make meaningful contributions on the global maritime stage.

“Nigeria is long overdue for a return to the IMO Council. A vote for Nigeria is a vote for Africa,” he asserted.

He also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for establishing the Marine and Blue Economy Ministry, describing it as a “bold and visionary step” that will unlock investment opportunities and create employment across the maritime sector.

“The creation of the Ministry is a strategic move that aligns with global trends. It opens new economic frontiers and supports our youth through job creation and skills development within the blue economy space,” Bunu stated.

Reaffirming the Union’s commitment to collaboration, the MWUN leader assured stakeholders of continued engagement aimed at fostering industrial harmony, particularly within the dock labour sub-sector.

Under my leadership, MWUN will continue to work with all maritime stakeholders to ensure peace, progress, and sustained sectoral growth,” he pledged.

As the world looks ahead to the 2025 Day of the Seafarer, themed “Our Ocean, Our Obligation, Our Opportunity,” Bunu emphasized the importance of sustainable ocean governance and the critical role of seafarers in global trade.

“MWUN remains steadfast in its advocacy for seafarers’ rights, decent work conditions, and responsible stewardship of our ocean resources. Nigerian seafarers deserve our gratitude for their immense contributions to global commerce,” he said.