President Tinubu appoints Yusuf Abubakar as NIMASA Chairman
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has appointed Barrister Yusuf Hamisu Abubakar as the new Chairman of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA). This strategic move underscores the president’s commitment to revitalizing Nigeria’s maritime sector, a crucial component of the nation’s economic growth. The announcement was made through a press release by presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga.
Abubakar’s Extensive Experience and Vision
Barrister Yusuf Hamisu Abubakar brings over 30 years of diverse experience in both public and private sectors to his new role at NIMASA. His career spans various industries, including insurance, power, and telecommunications. Notably, he chaired the Kaduna Electricity Distribution Company from 2014 to 2022 and served as a Director at the Kano Electricity Distribution Company from 2013 to 2021. His extensive background also includes a tenure as a non-executive Commissioner on the board of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) from 2011 to 2016 and as the Executive Secretary of the Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF) from 2000 to 2005.
Born in Kaduna State, Abubakar’s educational credentials are impressive. He earned his law degree from Bayero University Kano and holds an MBA in Financial Management from the University of Exeter, UK. After completing his studies at the Nigerian Law School in Lagos, he was called to the Nigerian Bar. His commitment to professional development is further highlighted by leadership courses he attended at Harvard Business School and Lagos Business School. Abubakar is also an active member of the Nigerian Bar Association, the International Bar Association, and the International Law Societies of London.
His nine-year tenure as Chairman of Niger Insurance Plc demonstrated his adeptness in leadership, particularly in conflict resolution and stakeholder management. With a dual focus on strategic direction and operational efficiency, Abubakar is well-equipped to tackle the challenges facing Nigeria’s maritime sector. Stakeholders are optimistic that his appointment will lead to improved compliance, security, and infrastructural development within NIMASA. Abubakar is expected to leverage his vast experience to enhance the agency’s regulatory and developmental roles, thereby contributing to the growth of Nigeria’s maritime industry.
Established in 2006, NIMASA is responsible for developing shipping and regulatory matters related to merchant shipping and seafarers. The agency oversees shipping licenses, seafarer regulations, and compliance with safety standards in ship construction and navigation. Abubakar’s appointment takes immediate effect, marking a new chapter for NIMASA and Nigeria’s maritime landscape.
