House Committee Demands Accountability from NIMASA Over 2026 Budget
The House of Representatives Committee on Maritime Safety, Education and Administration has intensified oversight of NIMASA, demanding stricter performance benchmarks and full transparency in the agency's 2026 budget proposals. At a budget defence session on Tuesday, committee chairperson Khadija Abba-Ibrahim (APC, Yobe) warned that vague projections and weak outcomes would no longer be tolerated, stating that chief executives must assume full responsibility for their plans and results.
Lawmakers emphasized that the maritime sector is central to Nigeria's economy and that budgetary allocations must yield tangible outcomes—particularly in maritime security, promoting indigenous shipping, and supporting sustainable growth. They stressed that future funding approvals will hinge on demonstrable performance and transparency, shifting from routine oversight to rigorous accountability.
NIMASA presented a 2026 gross revenue projection of ₦724 billion, covering recurrent spending, capital projects, security operations, seafarer training, and infrastructure upgrades. DG Dayo Mobereola highlighted reforms including full automation via the MOKOSA platform to block revenue leakages, the relaunch of the Cabotage Vessel Financing Fund (CVFF) under a stricter bank-led framework, and Nigeria's return to the IMO Council after 14 years. However, the committee demanded detailed, data-driven submissions on safety initiatives, workforce development, revenue optimisation, and capital projects.
Stakeholders should monitor whether these reforms reduce corruption, ensure CVFF funds reach indigenous firms, and improve maritime security. How can the sector ensure NIMASA's promises translate into measurable improvements rather than remain on paper?