The Sea Empowerment & Research Centre (SEREC) has called on the Federal Government to build on the recently announced partnership between Denmark and Nigeria in maritime security and seafarer training, saying the initiative holds enormous potential for national growth — but will require consistent follow-up and transparent implementation.
The Danish Ambassador to Nigeria, Jens Ole Bach Jansen, recently reaffirmed his country’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s maritime goals during a visit to the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) headquarters in Lagos. The collaboration aims to strengthen maritime safety, enhance seafarer competence, and modernize the nation’s blue-economy infrastructure.
SEREC, however, stressed that while such partnerships signal progress, sustained government engagement is essential to ensure the benefits reach local maritime communities, training institutions, and port-related industries.
“Nigeria has consistently signed maritime collaboration frameworks, but the real test lies in follow-through,” a SEREC spokesperson noted. “This partnership should not end at the ceremonial level — it must translate into real training opportunities, safer waters, and improved employment for Nigerian seafarers.”
SEREC’s Key Recommendations
- Establish a clear implementation roadmap outlining specific training targets, timelines, and budget allocations.
- Monitor and evaluate progress quarterly, with public updates to promote accountability and transparency.
- Involve private maritime academies and industry stakeholders to ensure that the benefits extend beyond federal agencies.
- Strengthen maritime security collaboration, particularly around intelligence sharing, patrol coordination, and anti-piracy initiatives in the Gulf of Guinea.
- Integrate blue-economy development into national trade strategy, ensuring that improved maritime capacity supports export growth and port efficiency.
Strategic Importance
SEREC emphasized that Nigeria’s partnership with Denmark could become a cornerstone for sustainable maritime growth if it is properly managed. The initiative aligns with broader regional efforts under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) to boost cross-border trade and develop Africa’s blue economy.
“Denmark has offered both expertise and technical collaboration — what’s needed now is political will and policy discipline,” SEREC added. “If the government follows through, Nigeria could position itself as a maritime training hub for West and Central Africa.”
Conclusion
The centre reaffirmed its readiness to collaborate with government agencies, international partners, and maritime institutions to support capacity-building, research, and youth empowerment in the maritime sector.
“The success of this partnership will depend on consistent oversight and inclusive participation,” SEREC concluded. “Only then will Nigeria realise the full potential of its maritime partnership with Denmark.”
Published: November 10, 2025
Source: Adapted from original reporting by Daily Trend