Headlines

2025 in retrospect: NIMASA finishes strong in service delivery

Osagie Edward

The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) has ended the year 2025 on an impressive note, recording far-reaching achievements that have strengthened Nigeria’s maritime sector and enhanced the country’s standing in global maritime governance.

Under the leadership of its Director-General, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, the Agency earned commendations from the Presidency, maritime institutions, labour unions, and a broad spectrum of industry stakeholders.

Throughout the year under review, NIMASA, operating under the supervision of the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, sustained a reform-driven agenda focused on maritime safety and security, capacity development, regulatory efficiency, labour harmony, and international engagement.

These deliberate efforts culminated in one of Nigeria’s most significant maritime milestones in recent history — the country’s successful return to the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council after a 14-year absence.

Presidential Commendation and Global Recognition

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu formally commended the management of NIMASA following Nigeria’s election into Category C of the IMO Council for the 2026–2027 biennium, describing the achievement as a strong affirmation of Nigeria’s growing influence in global maritime governance.

In a State House press release, the President noted that the election reflects the confidence of the international community in Nigeria’s commitment to maritime safety, security, environmental stewardship, and rules-based operations. He specifically applauded the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, NIMASA, and Nigeria’s diplomatic team for their professionalism, strategic engagement, and tireless efforts throughout the election process.

President Tinubu further emphasized that Nigeria’s return to the IMO Council aligns seamlessly with his administration’s broader vision to unlock the nation’s vast blue economy potential, strengthen anti-piracy initiatives in the Gulf of Guinea, expand maritime infrastructure, and position Nigeria as a regional shipping and logistics hub.

Landmark IMO Council Victory

Nigeria’s election into the IMO Council on Friday, 28 November 2025, during the IMO General Assembly in London, stands out as the defining highlight of the year.

The victory, led by the Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr. Adegboyega Oyetola, CON, marked Nigeria’s triumphant return to the Council after more than a decade.

Describing the outcome as a landmark endorsement of Nigeria’s maritime reforms, Dr. Oyetola credited over twelve months of intensive diplomatic shuttles, sustained advocacy, and coordinated stakeholder engagement involving NIMASA and other national institutions.

He noted that Nigeria’s improved maritime security architecture and reforms in the Gulf of Guinea played a decisive role in restoring global confidence.

With this development, Nigeria has been restored to a strategic global platform where it can meaningfully contribute to shaping international shipping policies, maritime safety standards, and sustainable ocean governance.

Hosting the IMO Secretary-General

Another major highlight of the year was NIMASA’s successful hosting of the Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organization, Mr. Arsenio Dominguez, the world’s leading maritime official.

The historic visit underscored Nigeria’s renewed relevance within the global maritime community.

The Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy personally led the engagement, providing strategic leadership and hosting the IMO Secretary-General, while NIMASA, as Nigeria’s nodal agency to the IMO, coordinated technical sessions and stakeholder interactions.

The visit further reinforced international confidence in Nigeria’s maritime reforms and institutional capacity.

Sustaining Zero Piracy in Nigerian Waters

Working in synergy with national and international security architecture, NIMASA successfully sustained zero piracy incidents in Nigerian waters during the year under review.

The Agency’s Deep Blue Project proved instrumental in this achievement. Port and Flag State during the period under review have been effective and surpassed the globally acceptable standards.

During his visit, the IMO Secretary-General witnessed a live demonstration by the Deep Blue security team and reportedly stated that other maritime nations have much to learn from Nigeria’s maritime security framework.

Commitment to Capacity Development

In the area of human capacity development, Dr. Mobereola and his management team demonstrated uncommon commitment to maritime education.

The issue of sea time for beneficiaries of the Nigerian Seafarers Development Program NSDP is enjoying deserved attention as the backlog is being cleared

At the Maritime Academy of Nigeria (MAN), Oron ,in a historic first, the NIMASA Director-General Dayo Mobereola personally attended the Academy’s graduation ceremony, becoming the first NIMASA chief executive to do so.

Speaking at the event, the Rector of MAN, Dr. Okonia, commended the NIMASA management for its sustained support for maritime education and seafarer development, noting that the Agency’s interventions have continued to strengthen the training pipeline for Nigerian seafarers and improve the quality of maritime manpower available to the industry.

Labour Harmony and Stakeholder Confidence

NIMASA’s performance in 2025 also attracted strong commendation from maritime labour unions, particularly the Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN).

The President-General of MWUN, Comrade Francis Bunu, praised the Agency for its constructive engagement with maritime labour, improved regulatory oversight, and commitment to policies that promote workers’ welfare, industry stability, and indigenous participation.

Comrade Bunu recently commended Dr. Mobereola for facilitating the successful unionization and signing of a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) between MWUN and some shipping companies operating in Nigeria. The agreement established clear working conditions for union members and was widely seen as a milestone in promoting industrial harmony.

The MWUN President-General described Dr. Mobereola as “one DG ever produced by NIMASA who is thorough, proactive, disciplined, and deeply knowledgeable in maritime administration,” noting that these qualities were instrumental in achieving the agreement.

Beyond the CBA, MWUN also lauded NIMASA’s role in combating piracy in Nigerian waters and the Gulf of Guinea, improvements that have enhanced safety and boosted investor confidence.

The union further pledged its full support for Nigeria’s IMO Council engagement and participated in initiatives to improve seafarers’ welfare, including the launch of a reviewed minimum wage framework.

In terms of the cabotage vessel financing fund , the NIMASA management under the supervision of the Honorable Minister of marine and blue economy, His Excellency Adegboyega Oyetola have successfully cracked a major bottleneck hindering the disbursement of the funds and 2026 is looking very promising.

Staff Welfare and Institutional Strengthening

Internally, the management of NIMASA recorded significant progress in staff welfare and motivation.

Promotions, structured training programmes, and targeted capacity-building initiatives were implemented to enhance career growth, professionalism, and institutional efficiency.

These measures contributed to improved morale and strengthened the Agency’s ability to deliver on its statutory mandate.

Positioned for a Stronger 2026

As 2025 draws to a close, NIMASA’s achievements under Dr. Mobereola’s leadership reflect a year of renewed credibility, strengthened partnerships, and measurable progress for Nigeria’s maritime sector.

The Agency’s alignment with the Federal Government’s blue economy agenda and its growing international recognition position it strongly for even greater impact in the years ahead.

With sustained reforms, robust stakeholder collaboration, and proactive global engagement, NIMASA enters 2026 well-positioned to consolidate gains and further advance Nigeria’s standing as a leading maritime nation.

DG’s Message of Renewed Hope

In a New Year message to stakeholders, the Director-General of NIMASA, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, expressed sincere appreciation for the cooperation, partnership, and steadfast support received throughout the past year.

He noted that stakeholders’ contributions were instrumental to the progress recorded across Nigeria’s maritime sector and expressed optimism for even stronger collaboration in the year ahead.

According to him, 2025 was a momentous year for Nigeria’s maritime industry, marked by significant achievements and renewed international confidence.

“As we look forward to 2026, it is our firm resolve to consolidate on these gains and deliver even greater outcomes for the sector and the nation at large,” he said.

Expressing confidence in collective effort, Dr. Mobereola added, “I am confident that, working together, we will make this possible.”

He concluded by wishing stakeholders and their loved ones a peaceful, productive, and fulfilling Year 2026.

Osagie Edward is Head Public Relations at the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA)

Customs

KLT Customs reaffirms commitment to stronger maritime stakeholder engagement

Deputy Comptroller Bolaji Adigun

Gloria Odion, Maritime reporter
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‎The Acting Customs Area Controller (CAC) of the Kirikiri Lighter Terminal (KLT) Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Deputy Comptroller Bolaji Adigun, has reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to deepening engagement with stakeholders across the maritime industry in line with efforts to promote trade facilitation, transparency, and sustainable economic growth.
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‎Adigun gave the assurance through the Deputy Comptroller in charge of Administration, Comptroller T.A. Jonah, who represented him during a courtesy visit by the newly elected Executive Committee of the Maritime Reporters Association of Nigeria (MARAN) to the Command in Lagos.
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‎The Acting CAC, who was unavoidably absent, underscored the importance of sustained collaboration between the Nigeria Customs Service and key industry stakeholders, particularly the maritime media, in advancing the Service’s mandate and supporting national economic development.
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‎He described the media as a critical partner in disseminating information on government policies, customs reforms, trade facilitation initiatives, revenue generation, and anti-smuggling operations.
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‎According to him, maritime journalists occupy a strategic position in shaping public understanding and perception of activities within the port and maritime sector, stressing the need for professionalism, accuracy, and balanced reportage in the discharge of their duties.
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‎Adigun further assured the MARAN delegation that the KLT Area Command would continue to operate an open-door policy while fostering cordial and productive relationships with stakeholders within the maritime community.
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‎Earlier in his remarks, the President of MARAN, Mr. Oluyinka Onigbinde, stated that the visit formed part of the association’s ongoing stakeholder engagement initiative following the inauguration of its newly elected executive committee.
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‎Onigbinde explained that the purpose of the visit was to formally introduce the new leadership of the association to the Command and strengthen the longstanding relationship between MARAN and the Nigeria Customs Service.
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‎He commended the KLT Area Command for its contributions to trade facilitation, revenue generation, and enforcement activities, describing the Command as a vital component of Customs operations within Nigeria’s port system.
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‎The MARAN President also reaffirmed the association’s commitment to professional, objective, and development-driven journalism, noting that maritime reporters play a significant role in promoting informed discourse on issues affecting the industry.
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‎He further assured the Command of MARAN’s continued support for initiatives aimed at enhancing efficiency, transparency, and competitiveness within Nigeria’s maritime sector through responsible and factual reporting.

Headlines

One infant, three adults die, several others sustain injuries in fatal train derailment along Warri- Itakpe route

Funso OLOJO, Editor

The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has confirmed the death of four passengers in a train derailment along the Warri–Itakpe Train Service (WITS) corridor near Agbor, Delta State on Monday, June 8th, 2026.

Several others suffered various degrees of injuries.

In a statement by the Ministry of Transportation and signed by its Permanent Secretary, Engr. Funsho Adebiyi, the victims included two female adults, one male adult and one infant.

The accident involved four coaches which reportedly capsized while one coach derailed, resulting in the unfortunate loss of four lives.

The statement confirmed that a total of 442 passengers were booked on the train, while 40 crew members, security personnel, and third-party service providers were also on board, bringing the total number of persons on the train to 482.

The NRC had activated immediate rescue and evacuation operations with the support of the Delta State Government, NEMA, FRSC, the Police, Civil Defence, local authorities, security agencies, and other emergency responders, and were completed by 6:30 p.m on Monday .

The Injured passengers were evacuated to medical facilities in Agbor for treatment.

Other notable individuals on board included the Senator representing Delta Central Senatorial District, Senator Ede Dafinone, and former Delta State Secretary to the State Government, Hon. Patrick Ukah, among others.

As of the time of this release, 24 serious injuries have been recorded, while several other passengers sustained varying degrees of injuries and are receiving medical attention.

One NRC staff member suffered a traumatic limb injury and is currently receiving treatment and is reported to be in stable condition.

“The Ministry and the NRC extend their deepest condolences to the families of the deceased and pray for the quick recovery of all those injured.

“The Corporation also appreciates the swift intervention of the Delta State Government, emergency responders, security agencies, the NRC Mechanical Directorate, the Special Rescue and Emergency Team, medical personnel, and members of the public who assisted in the rescue efforts” the statement declared.

The ministry said full onboard manifest has been retrieved and will be made available upon request by the relevant authorities while efforts are ongoing to identify all the injured and deceased persons for proper documentation.

The Ministry in conjunction with the NRC have commenced a full investigation into the cause of the accident while efforts will continue to account for all passengers and provide the necessary support to those affected.

Commentaries

Why Nigeria must prioritize competency development and standards to harness gains of blue economy

Funso OLOJO, Editor

Nigeria is endowed with vast maritime resources which offer enormous opportunities for economic growth, employment generation, food security, and environmental sustainability.

With its fabled over 850 kilometers of coastline, extensive inland waterways, and strategic access to the Gulf of Guinea, the country is naturally blessed to emerge as a hub for maritime activities in Africa.

However , taking advantage of these huge massive maritime opportunities should be the priority of Nigerian government which must be intentional on developing competency level of its Maritime professionals and raise their

adherence to international standards.

The blue economy encompasses diverse sectors including shipping, fisheries, aquaculture, marine tourism, offshore energy, maritime logistics, shipbuilding, and marine environmental management.

These sectors are highly knowledge-driven and require a workforce equipped with specialized skills and globally recognized certifications.

Without competent professionals, Nigeria risks losing economic opportunities to countries with better-trained maritime personnel and stronger institutional frameworks.

Competency development is essential for enhancing productivity, safety, and operational efficiency across the maritime sector.

Skilled seafarers, marine engineers, port operators, logistics professionals, and environmental experts are critical to ensuring that maritime activities meet international best practices.

As global shipping and offshore industries become increasingly technology-driven, continuous training and capacity building are necessary to keep Nigerian professionals competitive in the international labour market.

Skilled maritime professionals such as seafarers, marine engineers and allied personnel in the sector could be sources of foreign exchange earnings for Nigeria as they could be exported to the international community.

Philippines and India are the world’s top exporters of skilled maritime personnel such as seafarers where they get the chunk of their foreign exchange.

If Nigeria could develop such capacity in skilled labourers in the sector and export their expertise, the country could harvest bountifully from such venture.

Equally important is the adoption and enforcement of internationally recognized standards.

Standards provide the framework for quality assurance, safety management, environmental protection, and operational excellence.

Compliance with global maritime standards established by organizations such as the International Maritime Organization(IMO) and the Nautical Institute enhances Nigeria’s credibility as a maritime nation and attracts foreign investment.

Investors and international partners are more likely to engage with institutions and businesses that demonstrate compliance with recognized benchmarks.

That is why the recent certification of the Maritime Centre of Excellence operated by NLNG Shipping and Marine Services Limited by the UK Nautical Institute is germaine to Nigeria’s quest to develop training capacity and build compliance with standard procedures

This feat also underscores the importance of world-class training institutions in building local capacity.

That is why the government should give necessary assistance to training institutions in Nigeria such as Maritime Academy of Nigeria(MAN), Oron and the Maritime Centre of Excellence operated by NLNG Shipping and Marine Services Limited.

Such government patronage and assistance will not only improve the quality of maritime training in Nigeria but also position the country as a regional centre for maritime education and professional development.

Prioritizing competency development and standards will also contribute significantly to maritime safety and environmental sustainability.

Well-trained personnel are better equipped to prevent accidents, manage maritime risks, and respond effectively to emergencies.

Furthermore, adherence to environmental standards helps reduce marine pollution, protect biodiversity, and ensure the sustainable utilization of ocean resources, which are fundamental pillars of the blue economy.

From an economic perspective, a competent workforce and strong standards framework can increase Nigeria’s participation in global maritime trade, create high-value jobs, reduce dependence on foreign expertise, and improve the country’s competitiveness.

It also supports local content development by enabling Nigerian professionals and companies to meet the requirements of international contracts and projects.

In conclusion, competency development and standards are not optional components of Nigeria’s blue economy strategy; they are foundational requirements for its success.

By investing in human capital, strengthening training institutions, and enforcing internationally accepted standards, Nigeria can fully harness the immense potential of its maritime resources and transform the blue economy into a major driver of national development, economic diversification, and sustainable growth.