The Nigerian Maritime and Safety Administration (NIMASA) has initiated the preparatory phase for deploying the modular floating dock at Apapa Continental Shipyard.

Bashir Jamoh, the director-general, made this announcement in a statement released on Wednesday, February 14, in Lagos.

He said that the installation preparations are underway for the heavy 50-ton cylindrical spuds, which will serve as anchors for the dock.

He added that the agency had moved the floating dock to a jetty at the Standard Flour Mills in Apapa ahead of its scheduled installation at its operational base at the Continental Shipyard, Apapa.

Jamoh expressed confidence in the agency’s progress, stating, “We are moving slowly but steadily to our destination. Today, we are lifting out the cylindrical spuds to be prepared for piling at the Continental Shipyard where the floating dock is scheduled to commence operations.”

He assured stakeholders of the agency’s commitment to operationalising the floating dock soon, highlighting the prospect for Nigeria to “save foreign earnings” via this maritime advancement.

“This is a critical infrastructure that will enhance Nigeria’s maritime capabilities and position us as a major player in the global shipping industry,” the NIMASA DG added as per the project’s significance.

With engineers and experts working nonstop to ensure the dock’s prompt and seamless operation, the installation procedure is anticipated to take several weeks. But on completion, the port will offer ship owners and operators a cutting-edge location for maintaining and repairing their ships.

Furthermore, the project which will be run on a Public Private Partnership (PPP) arrangement aims to create employment opportunities, train seafarers, and develop maritime professionals; ultimately contributing to the growth of the maritime industry and the country’s economy.

The Nation reports that floating docks are used where the water variation is usually more than 24 feet during the boating season or in depths that are over eight feet.

To operate the modular docking station, the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) strategically leased specific sections at the Continental Shipyard in 2023.

The areas comprise the Dolphin Jetty, the jetty’s shoreline that adjourns the slipway, an administrative block, and a workshop for construction, welding, mechanical work, and civil maintenance, among others.