By Musa Ubandawaki, Sokoto

LONDON — Chairman of the Governing Board of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), Mukhtar Shehu Shagari, has met with the President of the World Maritime University (WMU), Prof. Maximo Q. Mejia Jr., on the sidelines of the ongoing International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council meeting in London.

The meeting focused on strengthening collaboration in maritime education, inland waterways development, capacity building and sustainable transportation systems.

Shagari reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to modernising its inland waterways infrastructure and developing the human capacity needed to drive growth in the maritime sector in line with international best practices.

He said Nigeria has significant potential in water transportation and the blue economy, stressing that partnerships with leading global maritime institutions are essential to unlocking these opportunities.

According to him, the Federal Government has continued to prioritise reforms aimed at improving safety, efficiency and economic activities along the nation’s inland waterways.

The NIWA board chairman noted that collaboration with the World Maritime University would help equip Nigerian maritime professionals with the technical knowledge and skills needed to address emerging challenges in the sector.

He also underscored the importance of knowledge exchange, research collaboration and professional training in advancing Nigeria’s maritime development.

In his remarks, Prof. Mejia reaffirmed the World Maritime 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.

The WMU president noted that sustainable maritime development depends on investment in human capital, innovation and adherence to international standards.

Both parties discussed opportunities to expand educational programmes, specialised training and institutional partnerships to support the long-term development of Nigeria’s maritime industry.

The meeting was one of several engagements taking place during the IMO Council session, where maritime leaders are discussing policies aimed at promoting safe, secure and environmentally sustainable shipping worldwide.