Yemisi Izuora
The Director General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, (NIMASA) Dr. Dakuku Peterside Says that research is very critical to attain sustainable development and NIMASA is ready to partner with the Defence Research and Development Bureau for the growth of the Nigerian maritime sector .
Peterside stated this when he received the Director General of the Defence Research and Development Bureau, Air Vice Marshall (AVM) Jomo Osahor who paid a courtesy visit to NIMASA in Lagos.
He noted that 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.
The 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.
“It is only when the research capabilities of the armed forces is fully developed that we can maximize 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”, the DG 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, 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.
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.