Dr. Dakuku Peterside, Director-General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), has reiterated the agency’s commitment to eliminating piracy and other criminal activities in Nigeria’s territorial waters. Peterside assured that while the incidence of piracy has decreased, the agency is rolling out new measures to further curb maritime crime.
Speaking during a meeting with executive members of the League of Maritime Editors and Publishers, Peterside highlighted that NIMASA is being repositioned to meet global standards, emphasizing that international best practices are essential to maintaining credibility on the world stage.
Peterside revealed that the fight against piracy is a collective effort, involving collaboration with the Nigerian Navy, Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), and other industry stakeholders. He expressed confidence that this unified approach will continue to reduce maritime crime, stating, “We will do everything to tackle the albatross hanging around our neck called piracy.”
A key component of the agency’s strategy is the pending Anti-Piracy Bill, which has undergone substantial review in the House of Representatives. Peterside noted that once passed into law, the bill will provide NIMASA with the legal framework necessary to combat maritime crime more effectively.
Peterside also addressed misrepresentations surrounding the Deep Blue Sea project, clarifying that the initiative involves acquiring critical maritime assets such as boats, aircraft, helicopters, and the establishment of a command and control center, alongside the training of special forces dedicated to combating maritime threats. He assured that these efforts will continue to enhance security in Nigeria’s waters.
