The Bureau of Public Service Reforms (BPSR) has commended the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) for its proactive and forward-looking approach to institutional reform and system automation.
This commendation was revealed in a statement released on Tuesday by the Head of Public Relations at NIMASA, Osagie Edward. According to the statement, the Director-General of BPSR, Dr Dasuki Arabi, made the remarks during a two-day sensitisation workshop held in Lagos.
Dr Arabi praised NIMASA for its consistent efforts to enhance operational efficiency, transparency, and public service delivery through digital innovation. He noted that the agency stands out among ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs) due to its clear commitment to embracing transformative reforms.
“NIMASA is showing, in practical terms, what alignment with national reform goals should look like. Their embrace of automation is not just innovative; it is essential for modern governance,” Arabi said.
He delivered a keynote address titled “Overview of National Strategy for Public Service Reforms”, where he highlighted the importance of equipping public institutions with reform tools like the Self-Assessment Tool (SAT) and encouraging collaborative efforts across government sectors. He pointed out that NIMASA’s approach could serve as a model for other government institutions, particularly in deploying digital solutions to drive efficiency.
In his own remarks, NIMASA’s Director-General, Dr Dayo Mobereola, expressed the agency’s continued commitment to public sector reform. He described reform as “the pathway to innovation and national advancement,” stating that NIMASA would continue adapting to new technologies and practices to better serve Nigeria’s maritime interests.
“Without change, we risk stagnation. As a forward-looking organisation, NIMASA is embracing transformation to fulfil its mandate and better serve the nation,” Mobereola said.
He further called on staff of the agency to maintain a proactive mindset and remain open to new ideas, stressing that adaptability is key to building institutional resilience and achieving sustainable success in public service delivery.
The workshop, attended by NIMASA staff and reform stakeholders, forms part of broader national efforts by the BPSR to ensure government institutions comply with the National Strategy for Public Service Reforms (NSPSR) and adopt innovative practices that improve governance and public satisfaction.
Over recent years, NIMASA has introduced several reforms, including the automation of its maritime domain awareness systems, online registration and certification processes, and the streamlining of shipping-related transactions. These moves are seen as efforts to curb inefficiencies, reduce corruption, and promote Nigeria’s maritime sector as globally competitive.