NIMASA UNVEILS NEW STANDARDS FOR SEAFARERS’ TRAINING, CERTIFICATION

The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency has introduced new standards for the training and certification of seafarers as part of efforts to improve professionalism and safety within Nigeria’s maritime industry.

The new standards are aimed at ensuring that Nigerian seafarers receive training that meets international requirements and prepares them for employment in the local and global maritime sectors.

NIMASA said the initiative would strengthen the quality of maritime education and improve the competence of personnel working onboard vessels.

The agency noted that properly trained seafarers are essential to maintaining safety, efficiency, and compliance with international maritime regulations.

Industry stakeholders welcomed the development, saying stronger training and certification systems could improve the competitiveness of Nigerian seafarers and create more employment opportunities.

They urged maritime training institutions to invest in modern facilities, qualified instructors, simulation equipment, and practical training programmes.

Stakeholders also called for closer collaboration between NIMASA, training institutions, shipping companies, and international maritime organisations to ensure that the new standards are effectively implemented.

Experts said improved certification would also help reduce safety risks and strengthen Nigeria’s reputation within the global maritime industry.

The initiative comes as Nigeria seeks to increase local participation in the maritime sector and develop a skilled workforce capable of supporting the country’s growing blue economy.

NIMASA said it would continue to monitor training institutions and certification processes to ensure compliance with the new requirements.

The agency reaffirmed its commitment to building a highly skilled, professional, and internationally competitive seafaring workforce in Nigeria.