- As new Chairman, Udeme Clement, commends NIMASA DG on maritime security feats
(Report by Silas Onuoha)
Yesterday, August 13, 2021, was a special day for the Powerful Pen Media Chapel, as the group organised its inaugural Congress and round table programme in grand style.
The programme, which brought members of the Chapel to a round table discussion, took place at NAGAFF headquarters, Apapa, Lagos.
The programme was a huge success, as members deliberated on issues of national interest, with particular attention on the maritime sector of the economy.
Some of the issues highlighted include; lingering insecurity in the country, especially in the northern region. Challenges facing bonded terminal operators. Unfair treatment of Nigerians abroad by foreign nationals. re-introduction of toll gates across Nigeria. Maritime security in Nigeria and the Gulf of Guinea; among others.
The Chapel said that report on activities of bonded terminals is still in the news, urging operators of such terminals to speak up on challenges facing their operations in the maritime industry.
“The Chapel said: “We are aware that the NAGAFF 100% Compliance team raised alarm over inefficiency of bonded terminals, as well as lack of operational equipment at some terminals.
We also gathered that operators of these terminals are facing challenges, this is the time for them to speak up, so that stakeholders and government will be aware of such problems.”
Also, the new Chairman of the Chapel, Mrs. Udeme Clement, and other members in attendance, commended the efforts of Director- General, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA),
Dr Bashir Jamoh, in tackling maritime insecurity in Nigerian waters and the Gulf of Guinea.
Dr Jamoh, was particularly applauded for his swift intervention in deploying the Deep Blue Assets to rescue eight maritime workers, kidnapped along kula abomema waterways, in Rivers State, recently, five of which were members of Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN).
Mrs Clement, also commended the NIMASA boss on the measures being put in place to start wreck removal on waterways.
This, she said is a welcome initiative and pragmatic step to ensuring maritime safety.
The Chairman assured that Powerful Pen Media Chapel, under her leadership will work assiduously to raise the tempo of advocacy in promoting a better and productive maritime sector.
The Chapel is made up of members of Maritime Journalists Association of Nigeria (MAJAN).
Members of the chapel
