The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) has declared its intention to build upon the significant progress made in 2025, aiming to deepen its impact on the nation's maritime sector and its standing in global affairs.
Consolidating a Landmark Year
In a review of its activities, the agency, through its Deputy Director and Head of Public Relations, Osagie Edward, stated that the reforms of the past year have positioned Nigeria for greater influence. A key highlight was Nigeria's successful return to the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Council after an absence of 14 years. This achievement, praised by President Bola Tinubu, aligns with the federal government's vision to harness the Blue Economy, combat piracy, and develop maritime infrastructure.
Edward attributed the sustained period of zero piracy incidents in Nigerian waters to the effective operations of the Deep Blue Project. This security initiative has garnered international acclaim, with IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez recommending it as a model for other nations. Furthermore, NIMASA's Port State and Flag State Control activities were reported to have exceeded globally accepted standards.
Focus on Capacity and Collaboration
The agency's strategy for continued growth rests on several pillars:
- Human Capacity Development: Efforts are intensifying to resolve the long-standing issue of sea-time placement for beneficiaries of the Nigerian Seafarers Development Programme (NSDP). The Acting Rector of the Maritime Academy of Nigeria (MAN), Dr. Kevin Okonna, commended NIMASA's support for maritime education.
- Staff Welfare and Institutional Strength: NIMASA reported progress through staff promotions, structured training, and capacity-building initiatives to boost professionalism and operational efficiency.
- Stakeholder Harmony: The President-General of the Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN), Francis Bunu, praised the agency's engagement with labour. He specifically lauded the Director-General, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, for facilitating the unionisation and signing of a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) for workers in some shipping companies.
Charting the Course for 2026 and Beyond
Looking ahead, NIMASA affirmed that sustained reforms, robust stakeholder collaboration, and proactive global engagement will remain central to its operations in 2026. Operating under the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, the agency's agenda will continue to focus on safety, security, regulatory efficiency, and international engagement. The alignment with the national Blue Economy agenda is seen as a critical driver for positioning Nigeria as a leading maritime nation and a regional shipping and logistics hub.
