The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) and the China Maritime Safety Administration (China MSA) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to strengthen maritime cooperation between the two countries.
‎‎NIMASA spokesperson Osagie Edward said in a statement on Tuesday that the agreement was signed at the Shanghai Seafarers Assessment Model Centre in Shanghai, China.
‎‎Dayo Mobereola, director-general of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), described the agreement as a major milestone in Nigeria-China relations.
‎‎Mr Mobereola said the MoU would provide a framework for cooperation in maritime safety and navigation, marine environmental protection, seafarer training and certification, protection of seafarers’ rights, marine accident investigations and maritime security.
‎‎He said the agreement would promote the exchange of expertise and deliver practical benefits for both countries’ maritime industries.
‎‎The NIMASA boss said President Bola Tinubu values Nigeria’s longstanding relationship with China and remained committed to strengthening bilateral cooperation, particularly in the maritime sector.
‎‎He added that the partnership aligned with the federal government’s Renewed Hope Agenda and the objectives of the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, led by Adegboyega Oyetola.
‎‎Also speaking, China MSA Director-General Xu Wei reaffirmed China’s commitment to strengthening maritime relations with Nigeria.
‎‎Mr Xu expressed China’s interest in Nigeria’s maritime development and acknowledged the country’s progress in the sector.
‎‎He pledged China’s continued support for bilateral cooperation and sustainable growth in the maritime industries of both countries.
‎‎The agreement is expected to promote technical cooperation, knowledge-sharing, capacity development and the exchange of best practices, while strengthening institutional relations between the two maritime administrations.
‎‎(NAN)
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