Merchant Shipping (Manning) Regulations

Regulations specify the minimum crew numbers and qualifications for vessels in Nigerian waters. They target ship owners, seafarers, and NIMASA. This protects the safety of ships, crews, and the marine environment.

What Is This Policy?

Regulations specifying the minimum number and qualifications of crew members required to safely operate different types and sizes of vessels in Nigerian waters and on Nigerian-flagged ships.

Who Does It Target?

Ship owners and operators Seafarers and maritime professionals Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) Port authorities

What Does It Aim to Achieve?

Ensure vessels are adequately and competently manned to protect the safety of the ship, crew, passengers, and the marine environment.

Key Features

Manning Scales: Minimum crew numbers based on vessel type, tonnage, and trading area Qualifications: Certificate of competency requirements for each position Hours of Work: Maximum working hours and minimum rest periods for seafarers

Current Status

Rollout Stage: Active Coverage: All Nigerian-flagged vessels and vessels in Nigerian waters Lead Agency: NIMASA

How to Access

Ship owners and operators must comply. Ensure vessel manning complies with prescribed scales Verify crew qualifications before departure Maintain records of crew certifications and rest hours

Official Resources

Website: nimasa.gov.ng Contact: NIMASA, Lagos

Legal Framework

Issued under the Merchant Shipping Act 2007 and the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency Act 2007. Implements the STCW Convention (Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers) and the ILO Maritime Labour Convention 2006 as ratified by Nigeria.