NIMASA, visiting Defence chief avoid discussions on Israeli security deal
Stakeholders in Nigerian Maritime industry are still trying to find out what compelled the Director General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, (NIMASA) Dr. Dakuku Peterside and his visiting Director General of the Defence Research and Development Bureau, Air Vice Marshall (AVM) Jomo Osahor, not to discuss the recent trending but controversial award of contract for the security of Nigerian waterways to an Israeli firm.
Rather both agencies were quick to agree to partner with the Defence Research and Development Bureau for the growth of the Nigerian maritime sector.
Whereas the key and constitutional area of partnership for both bodies remains the security of waterways, their observed silence on the matter has further fueled more confusion on the state of maritime security in the country.
According to Peterside, what makes a great organization is the ability to initiate new processes based on detailed research, which will in turn guarantee sustainable growth with a positive multiplier effect on the nation.
NIMASA DG reemphasized the need to develop indigenous capabilities to build armored and ballistic vessels amongst others, which will be specifically designed to suit the Nigerian geographical terrain. This he explained, is the only way to reduce dependence on western supplies which may not necessarily suit the Nigerian waters.
Earlier in his remarks, the Director General of the Defence Research and Development Bureau, Air Vice Marshal (AVM) Jomo Osahor, stated that before now, the various Services in the armed forces worked independently by venturing into one innovation or another, but got little results.
Accordingly, he stated that this gave rise to the establishment of the Defence Bureau comprising of the Army, Air Force and the Navy, which has given room for more co-ordinated efforts by the armed forces, thereby achieving the desired results. “It is high time we take up innovative challenges to find a solution to the country’s challenges”, AVM Osahor said.
He noted that the Bureau is willing to partner with indigenous companies that can fabricate gunboats, rather than purchasing and importing western equipment. This he said will also help the Federal Government’s quest to create job opportunities in the country, which will further stem the tide of insecurity and restiveness amongst the youths.
