The Nigeria Indigenous Shipowners Association (NISA) has launched its shipping line, NISA Ocean Transport Limited (NOTL), which will commence operations with two acquired vessels.
The company’s board, comprising six members, was inaugurated at a ceremony attended by key stakeholders in the maritime industry.
The Chairman of NISA’s Board of Trustees, Chief Isaac Jolapomo, expressed confidence that the new company will succeed under the leadership of Sunny Omatseye and his team. The board members include two NISA executives, two members of the association’s Board of Trustees, and two NISA members.
Omatseye who is the Chairman of the new shipping line disclosed that the company plans to acquire a 30,000 tons tanker and an LPG vessel. He expressed optimism that they will secure patronage from the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited and the Nigerian Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG).
Omatseye highlighted the challenge posed by the issuance of waivers to foreign shipowners but noted that the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) is working to address the issue. He also revealed that the Minister for Marine and Blue Economy has assured that the issue of waivers will be addressed to enable Nigerians to participate fully in the shipping industry.
The company aims to provide shipping services to the Nigerian market, reducing reliance on foreign vessels and promoting the growth of the local maritime industry. With the support of NISA members and stakeholders, NOTL is poised to become a major player in the Nigerian shipping industry.