11 May 2017, Sweetcrude, Lagos – The Nigerian Ports Authority, NPA, has acquired four new tug boats in its quest to reposition the ports for greater operational efficiency.
The tug boats were launched at a colourful ceremony in Lagos. The boats named MT Daura, MT. Ubima, MT. Uromi and MT. Majiya, were each launched by the Managing Director of the NPA, Ms Hadiza Bala Usman; Barister Mrs. Constance Harry Onukwagha, Chief (Dr.) Mrs Adenike Akande and Senator Binta Masi Garba in that order, according to a statement by the NPA.
The statement said the vessels were capable of performing multiple functions which include firefighting as well as search and rescue capabilities.
Speaking at the event, Usman said the commissioning of the tug boats was to enhance port efficiency and meet stakeholders’ expectations in the shipping sector. She sought the collaboration of stakeholders in the sector to help the Federal Government to diversify the economy.
According to her, the NPA was fulfilling its obligations to manage the 13.5-metre Lagos Channels to address challenges in the port business in partnership with the Lagos Channel Management Company, LCM.
She further stated that about 100 critical wrecks have been removed in the Lagos Channels since the partnership with LCM began years ago.
