The Director General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dr. Dakuku Peterside has stated that the Agency was ready to partner with the Defence Research and Development Bureau (DRDB) for the growth of the Nigerian maritime sector, adding that research was a catalyst to attain sustainable development.

Peterside, who stated this when the Director General of the Defence Research and Development Bureau(DRDB), Air Vice Marshal Jomo Osahor led his team on a courtesy visit to NIMASA, noted that what makes a great organisation is the ability to initiate new processes based on detailed research, which would in turn guarantee sustainable growth with a positive multiplier effect on the nation.

The NIMASA DG reemphasised the need to develop indigenous capabilities to build armored and ballistic vessels amongst others, which would be specifically designed to suit the Nigerian geographical terrain. This, he explained. was the only way to reduce dependence on western supplies which might not necessarily suit the Nigerian waters.

“It is only when the research capabilities of the armed forces are fully developed that we can maximise our military powers. We are now more knowledgeable that not everything in the country is imported. Yes, we cannot accomplish all over night, but with sustained efforts we will be there and even surpass them,” Peterside said.

While also using the opportunity to commend the efforts of the Armed Forces of Nigeria for its doggedness in ensuring the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Nigeria through their commitment, he assured them that NIMASA will continue to remain a partner in progress for the good of our country Nigeria.

“On our part as NIMASA, we are open to all forms of developmental initiatives that can help better our maritime sector, especially in the area of maritime security. Therefore in your quest to partner other organisations and institutions, consider NIMASA as your number one partner in progress all for the growth and development of the maritime sector and the nation as a whole,” Dr. Dakuku stated.

Earlier in his remarks, Air Vice MarshalOsahor 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 that 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 could fabricate gunboats, rather than purchasing and importing Western equipment. This, he said, would also help the Federal Government’s quest to create job opportunities in the country, which would further stem the tide of insecurity and restiveness amongst the youths.

He appealed to NIMASA to join hands with the Bureau in the area of research in order to find innovative solutions to the challenges facing the country.

•Photo shows, From left: Director General, Defence Research and Development Bureau, Air Vice Marshall Jomo Osahor; NIMASA DG, Dr. Dakuku Peterside; Executive Director, Operations, NIMASA, Engr. Rotimi Fashakin; and Commodore Obenta in a photograph during a courtesy visit by the Bureau to NIMASA in Lagos