A security expert and one of the promoters of the Maritime Security Agency Bill (MASECA) Capt James Falabi has assured that passage of the controversial bill will bring back Nigerian importers who have deserted Nigerian ports to divert their cargoes to neighboring ports in Benin Republic Togo and Ghana.
Falabi, in a research document obtained by Shipping Position Daily argued that ships prefer to divert to other ports because Nigeria has been classed as high risk zone by the international insurance community, hence they pay high premium which cannot equate with 1% of gross of cargo carried.
Capt Falabi who is also a merchant navy officer stressed that if 1% of the cargo gross tonnage is paid legally into MASECA’s account to put security apparatus in place, Nigeria will be on the White List of the International Maritime Organisation and the expenses on the cargo will be reduced.
According to him, the collaboration between Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) and the Nigerian Navy does not give the required image to attract low insurance premium for vessel and goods coming to Nigeria.
He said indirectly, the ship and cargo owners are paying to secure their risk of trading in Nigeria.
According to him "there is huge capital flight in the country; most shipping companies have shifted operation to Benin, Togo and Ghana, some European and Asian company have also relocated or cancel their operation entirely form Africa"
"The Maritime Security of the nation cannot be combined with other portfolios without defects.
Though Nigeria was colonized by the British, but Nigerians are Americans in nature; will need MASECA treatment for our aliments as the Coast Guard is effective in America. MASECA will be effective and relevant in Nigeria"
"MASECA will engage over 3,000 seafarers directly and 10,000 indirectly, apart from the direct and indirect employment that would be created by the MASECA, new investment as a result of security drive would bring fresh job creation”, he added.
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