Maritime Development Bank: MOWCA Scribe Receive Reassurance From Federal Government For Establishment
By Raheem Ibrahim
The Secretary General of the Maritime Organisation of West and Central Africa, Dr. Paul Adalikwu has received the reassurance of the Nigeria’s Federal Government support for the establishment of the Regional Maritime Development Bank (RMDB) in the country.
Dr Adalikwu got the reassurance on Tuesday when he visited Nigeria’s Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr Wale Edun as part of moves towards establishment of the Bank in the country.
Adalikwu while briefing the minister on MOWCA’s activities, described the proposed bank as an opportunity to expand maritime investment, entrepreneurship and job creation which would support President Bola Tinubu administration’s agenda for economic growth
He added that the Bank would bridge the gap of providing financing options for the maritime sector in Nigeria and other MOWCA member states including aiding efforts for maritime infrastructural development like vessel procurement, construction of jetties, provision of port facilities, technically assisting in capacity upgrade and other areas.
Dr Adalikwu also briefed the Minister on the various options and model for maritime financing that can accelerate development and faster achievement of the economic goals of Nigerian government
While appreciating the Nigeria Government for creating a ministry of marine and blue economy, the MOWCA Scribe also called for a robust synergy between Nigeria and the organisation.
He said a viable partnership between both bodies holds the potential of maximum economic benefits for MOWCA and the country.
Responding, the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr Wale Edun expressed interest and optimism in the MOWCA activities especially on the bank which he described as a special purpose outfit tailored to address the financial needs of the marine and blue economy sector.
Edun also commended Adalikwu for his efforts at repositioning MOWCA while pledging federal government’s full support for the proposed RMDB.
