-as Jamoh pushes for improved partnership on Ship Building, Repairs, Others
The Deputy Minister for Overseas Koreans and Consular Affairs, Republic of Korea, Choi Yeong, has described Nigeria is the gateway to unlocking the potentials of the Blue Economy in Africa even as Dr Bashir Jamoh, Director General of Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) has sought for improved partnership with the Koreans in Ship Building, Ship Repairs and Fisheries.
Choi Yeong’s assertion was made on Tuesday while he paid a courtesy call to NIMASA Management in Lagos.
According to him, “Nigeria is the one of the biggest countries on the African continent in terms of economic size, population and market potentials. So Nigeria could be a very important partner to us the People of Korea. Nigeria could be our gateway to the whole of African continent. We are glad to inform you that Korea has scheduled a summit involving the entire African continent in 2024 and we hope it will strengthen relationship with Nigeria and Africa.”
Addressing his guests also, the Director General, NIMASA, Dr. Bashir Jamoh, OFR noted that although the relationship between both countries is over 40 years and needs to be further strengthened.
He muted an idea for collaboration between both countries in the areas of shipbuilding, ship repairs and fisheries.
“The issue of trade cannot flourish without adequate security. NIMASA is making steady progress in collaboration with the Nigerian Navy and other security Agencies to secure the safety and security of investors, Vessels, and Seafarers in the Nigerian maritime domain.
“Considering the fact that population of Koreans is highest in Nigeria when compared to other African states, the need for improved relationship between Nigeria and Korea cannot be over emphasized.
“Korea arguably has the best Shipbuilding Companies globally and that is an area we desire partnership. We have commenced discussions with the Samsung Group and Hyundai as well on the issue of shipbuilding and ship repairs.
“I believe we can also explore improved interphase in areas such as deep sea fishing. Fishing in Nigeria used to be a very large source of income not far behind Oil and Gas. The numbers are not looking very encouraging at the moment. Partnership will lead to more fishing trawlers in Nigerian waters”, NIMASA boss stated.
He also disclosed that since the 2nd quarter of 2021, there has been no issue of kidnapping and insecurity on Nigerian waters as the Federal Government is determined to achieve a safe and secured maritime domain.
Choi Yeong who was accompanied by the Korean Ambassador to Nigeria, His Excellency Kim Young Chae and members of his team also visited the Deep Blue C4i centre, NIMASA e-Library, the Marine Environment Management Laboratory and the Kitack Lim Regional Maritime Safety and Security Centre of Excellence.
