NIGERIAN PORTS AUTHORITY (PILOTAGE) REGULATIONS

Regulations govern the licensing, conduct, and discipline of marine pilots in Nigerian waters and ports. They target licensed marine pilots, shipping companies, and NPA officials. This ensures that pilotage services are provided by qualified professionals to maintain safety standards.

What Is This Policy?

Regulations governing the licensing, conduct, and discipline of marine pilots authorised to provide pilotage services in Nigerian waters and ports.

Who Does It Target?

Licensed marine pilots Shipping companies using pilotage services NPA harbour masters and pilotage superintendents Vessels entering Nigerian pilotage districts

What Does It Aim to Achieve?

Ensure pilotage services in Nigerian waters are provided only by qualified, licensed pilots operating to consistent professional and safety standards.

Key Features

Pilot Licensing: Prescribes the qualifications, examinations, and experience required for a marine pilot licence. Conduct Standards: Defines the duties and conduct expected of pilots during pilotage operations. Discipline: Provides procedures for investigating and disciplining pilots for negligence or misconduct. Licence Renewal: Prescribes conditions for annual renewal of pilot licences including medical fitness.

Current Status

Rollout Stage: Active Coverage: All Nigerian pilotage districts Beneficiaries: Shipping industry; port safety Funding: Pilotage dues collected by NPA

How to Access

Pilots must hold current NPA licences for the specific district they serve Annual medical examination required for licence renewal Pilots must maintain currency by completing minimum pilotage assignments annually Application method: Apply for pilot licence at the NPA Pilotage Department.

Important Terms

Operating as a pilot without a valid licence is a criminal offence Negligent pilotage causing vessel damage creates liability for the pilot Pilots may be suspended pending investigation of incidents

Official Resources

Website: https://www.nigerianports.gov.ng Contact: Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA)

Legal Framework

Enacted under Section 4 of the 1999 Constitution. Operates under the Nigerian Ports Authority Act Cap N126 LFN 2004, the Merchant Shipping Act 2007, the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency Act 2007, the Customs and Excise Management Act, and SOLAS (International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea) standards.