Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency Repeal an
Act · Transport
An Act repeals and enacts a new law to modernize the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency. It targets shipping companies, seafarers, and maritime stakeholders in Nigerian waters. This aims to enhance safety, security, and development in the maritime sector.
What Is This Policy?
Proposes the repeal of the existing NIMASA Act and the enactment of a comprehensive new law to modernise the regulatory, safety, and developmental mandate of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency.
Who Does It Target?
Shipping companies, vessel operators, and seafarers in Nigerian waters Maritime industry stakeholders including ports and logistics operators Coastal communities and the broader Nigerian maritime economy
What Does It Aim to Achieve?
Modernise NIMASA's legal framework to reflect current international maritime standards and conventions Strengthen maritime safety, security, and environmental protection in Nigerian waters Enhance NIMASA's capacity to develop Nigeria's cabotage trade and maritime industry
Key Features
Updated Mandate: Expanded NIMASA mandate covering maritime safety, pollution control, seafarer welfare, and cabotage enforcement International Alignment: Full alignment with IMO conventions including SOLAS, MARPOL, and STCW Cabotage Enforcement: Strengthened enforcement of the Coastal and Inland Shipping (Cabotage) Act Revenue Framework: Updated levy and fee structures for maritime industry services
Current Status
Under consideration by the National Assembly. The bill to repeal and replace the existing NIMASA Act with a modernised legislative framework is being considered.
Vessel operators and seafarers must register with NIMASA and comply with updated certification and safety requirements NIMASA vessel registration for all commercial ships in Nigerian waters Seafarer certification under updated STCW requirements Compliance with updated safety and environmental standards Application method: NIMASA – nimasa.gov.ng
Important Terms
Operating vessels in Nigerian waters without NIMASA registration is an offence Foreign vessels must comply with cabotage restrictions for coastal trade Non-compliance with safety standards may result in vessel detention
Impact & Metrics
A modernised NIMASA legal framework will boost Nigeria's maritime economy, improve safety in one of Africa's busiest shipping corridors, and generate more blue economy revenue.
Official Resources
Website: nimasa.gov.ng Contact: Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) This policy summary is for informational purposes. For official and legal details, refer to the cited Act or Bill and official government sources.
Legal Framework
To be enacted under the legislative powers of the National Assembly vested by Section 4 of the 1999 Constitution. Will repeal and replace the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency Act 2007, operating alongside the Merchant Shipping Act 2007, the Cabotage Act 2003, the SOLAS Convention, and MARPOL 73/78.