Dr. Bashir Jamoh OFR, the Director-General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), has hailed the recent Supreme Court ruling reaffirming the Federal Government’s authority, through both the Nigerian Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) and NIMASA, to oversee activities within Nigerian inland waterways. Describing the judgement as a victory for all parties involved, Jamoh emphasized its potential to resolve ambiguity and curb multiple taxation issues.
In an official statement posted on his handle, @JamohBashir, the Director-General expressed optimism that this ruling would put an end to the problem of multiple taxation, clarifying that states would no longer impose levies on investors. This shift of responsibility to the federal level, according to Jamoh, will significantly enhance the ease of conducting maritime business in the country, ultimately attracting greater investment from both local and international spheres.
Highlighting the vast potential inherent in Nigeria’s over 10,000 kilometers of inland waters, Jamoh underscored the significance of this ruling in the Federal Government’s quest to tap into and maximize the country’s inland water resources. He urged all stakeholders, especially state governments, to acknowledge and collaborate with NIWA and NIMASA, emphasizing that such collaboration would lead to better harnessing of Nigeria’s maritime potential for the collective benefit of all citizens.
Osagie Edward, FNIPR, Assistant Director of Public Relations at NIMASA, echoed the sentiments expressed by Dr. Jamoh, indicating the agency’s alignment with the Supreme Court’s decision and its commitment to leveraging this ruling for the advancement of Nigeria’s maritime sector and the overall national interest.