Nigeria’s Transport Minister Leads Delegation To IMO Assembly

The Minister of Transport, Sen. Idris Umar, on Monday led the Federal Government’s delegation to the 27th Assembly of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) in London.

Reports say that the agenda of the meeting includes adoption of the 201 Manilla amendments to the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watch Keeping for Seafarers.

Others are the associated Code, the Pinnacle of a Year dedicated to the seafarer under the World Maritime Day 2010, 2010 Protocol to the International Convention on Liability and Compensation for Damage in connection with Carriage of Hazardous and Noxious Substances by Sea, 1996 (HNS Convention).

The assembly, which meets once every two years, is responsible for approving the work programme, voting the budget and determining the financial operations of the organisation.

Umar described Nigeria’s 50 years membership of the IMO as rewarding.

Speaking when he visited the Nigerian High Commissioner to the UK, Dr Dalhatu Tafida, in his office, Umar commend the efforts and contributions of the High Commissioner at the IMO, and reiterated government’s commitment to maritime safety.

“Nigeria will continue its pursuit of global maritime safety in order to boost trade and shipping investment.”

Tafida said the country’s contributions in most international forums had positioned it as an “authoritative voice” in resolving global issues.

“Nigeria is well respected globally. Wherever you go, people want to do business with Nigeria.”

Corlins Walter