Chairman of the Governing Board of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), Mukhtar Shehu Shagari, has called for stronger collaboration with the World Maritime University (WMU) to enhance Nigeria's maritime education, inland waterways development and capacity building.
Shagari made the call during a meeting with the President of the World Maritime University, Prof. Maximo Q. Mejia Jr., on the sidelines of the ongoing International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council meeting in London.
The discussions centred on expanding cooperation in maritime education, sustainable transportation systems, research and professional training to support the long-term development of Nigeria's maritime sector.
Shagari reaffirmed the Federal Government's commitment to modernising inland waterways infrastructure and strengthening the human capacity required to drive growth in the country's maritime industry in line with global best practices.
He noted that Nigeria possesses vast potential in water transportation and the blue economy, stressing that strategic partnerships with leading international maritime institutions are critical to unlocking these opportunities.
According to him, ongoing government reforms are focused on improving safety, operational efficiency and economic activities across the nation's inland waterways.
The NIWA board chairman added that closer collaboration with the World Maritime University would equip Nigerian maritime professionals with the technical expertise needed to address emerging industry challenges while promoting knowledge exchange and research.
In his remarks, Prof. Mejia reaffirmed the university's commitment to supporting member states through education, research and capacity development.
He commended Nigeria's efforts to strengthen its maritime sector and expressed the university's readiness to deepen cooperation with relevant institutions in the country.
Mejia emphasised that sustainable maritime development depends on continuous investment in human capital, innovation and strict adherence to international standards.
Both parties also explored opportunities to expand educational programmes, specialised training and institutional partnerships aimed at advancing Nigeria's maritime industry.
The meeting formed part of a series of engagements taking place during the IMO Council session, where global maritime leaders are discussing policies to promote safe, secure and environmentally sustainable shipping.
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