Guidelines on Implementation of Coastal and Inland Shipping (Cabotage) Act, 2003
Guideline · Transport
Policy date: 2003-01-01
Guidelines detail the implementation of the Coastal and Inland Shipping Act, including license procedures and fund management. They target shipping companies, regulatory bodies, and seafarer unions. This supports the growth of indigenous shipping in Nigeria.
Guidelines on Implementation of Coastal and Inland Shipping (Cabotage) Act, 2003
What Is This Policy?
Operational guidelines that detail how the Cabotage Act is implemented, including the waiver application process, cabotage license procedures, and the management of the Cabotage Vessel Financing Fund.
Who Does It Target?
Nigerian and foreign shipping companies operating in cabotage trade NIMASA cabotage compliance unit Nigerian banks administering the Cabotage Fund Nigerian seafarer unions
What Does It Aim to Achieve?
Provide clear, practical guidance on Cabotage Act compliance, waiver applications, and fund access to support the growth of indigenous shipping.
Key Features
License Application: Step-by-step process for obtaining a cabotage license Waiver Process: Criteria, documentation, and approval procedures for vessel, manning, and build waivers Fund Disbursement: Guidelines for Nigerian ship owners to access the Cabotage Vessel Financing Fund Compliance Monitoring: NIMASA inspection and enforcement procedures
Current Status
Rollout Stage: Active Coverage: All cabotage trade operations Lead Agency: NIMASA
How to Access
Operators in cabotage trade must follow these guidelines. Apply for cabotage license through NIMASA Submit waiver applications where applicable Nigerian ship owners may apply for Cabotage Fund financing
Official Resources
Website: nimasa.gov.ng Contact: NIMASA, Lagos
Legal Framework
The Guidelines for Implementing the Coastal and Inland Shipping (Cabotage) Act are issued under the Coastal and Inland Shipping (Cabotage) Act 2003 by the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA). They operate alongside the Merchant Shipping Act 2007, the NIMASA Act, and the Nigerian Ports Authority Act. International standards from the IMO and the ECOWAS Maritime Transport Policy provide the regional shipping framework.