The reported wrecks removal initiative by the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) has received wide commendations from an industry player and stakeholder in the maritime sector, Dr. Chris Asoluka.
Speaking in Lagos recently, Dr. Asoluka, a former Chairman of Oil and Gas Free Zone Authority (OGFZA), noted that the efforts of the Dr. Dakuku Peterside led Management of NIMASA to reposition the maritime sector is a development long overdue.
He urged the Agency to pursue its initiative vigorously with confident, stating that the process of wreck removal will no doubt have a positive impact on the global perception of Nigeria’s waters.
Asoluka who stated that abandoned wrecks pose danger to navigation and safety of lives and properties on the nation’s territorial ways, called on owners of abandoned wrecks to co-operate with the Management of NIMASA by removing them promptly, in order to ensure a safe and secured maritime environment.
The Director General of NIMASA, Dr. Dakuku Peterside had earlier stated that the Agency is working closely with the Federal Ministry of Transportation to review the process of wreck removal on the nation’s territorial waterways, especially the ones on the channels, as they pose great danger in our waterways.
He said that a marine notice had been issued by the Agency to that effect and anyone who refuses to comply with the notice will have his or her wrecks removed forcefully and possibly face litigation. This is in line with the Agency’s enabling Act and international protocol on wrecks removal.
