The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) and the China Maritime Safety Administration (China MSA) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to strengthen maritime cooperation between the two countries.

NIMASA spokesperson Osagie Edward said in a statement on Tuesday that the agreement was signed at the Shanghai Seafarers Assessment Model Centre in Shanghai, China.

Dayo Mobereola, director-general of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), described the agreement as a major milestone in Nigeria-China relations.

Mr Mobereola said the MoU would provide a framework for cooperation in maritime safety and navigation, marine environmental protection, seafarer training and certification, protection of seafarers’ rights, marine accident investigations and maritime security.

He said the agreement would promote the exchange of expertise and deliver practical benefits for both countries’ maritime industries.

The NIMASA boss said President Bola Tinubu values Nigeria’s longstanding relationship with China and remained committed to strengthening bilateral cooperation, particularly in the maritime sector.

He added that the partnership aligned with the federal government’s Renewed Hope Agenda and the objectives of the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, led by Adegboyega Oyetola.

Also speaking, China MSA Director-General Xu Wei reaffirmed China’s commitment to strengthening maritime relations with Nigeria.

Mr Xu expressed China’s interest in Nigeria’s maritime development and acknowledged the country’s progress in the sector.

He pledged China’s continued support for bilateral cooperation and sustainable growth in the maritime industries of both countries.

The agreement is expected to promote technical cooperation, knowledge-sharing, capacity development and the exchange of best practices, while strengthening institutional relations between the two maritime administrations.

(NAN)