The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) has emphasized that effective Port State Control (PSC) is vital for global maritime safety, eliminating substandard vessels, and maintaining environmental standards across international waters.
This statement was made during a five-day Regional Train-the-Trainer Workshop on Port State Control, held in Lagos for member states of the Abuja Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), with support from the International Maritime Organisation (IMO).
NIMASA Highlights Importance of PSC
NIMASA’s Director-General, Dayo Mobereola, represented by Executive Director, Operations, Engr. Fatai Taiye Adeyemi, stressed that the effectiveness of PSC relies heavily on the skill and professionalism of inspectors.
“Effective Port State Control is one of the most potent tools for ensuring global safety and maintaining environmental standards in shipping. Your presence here demonstrates our collective resolve to strengthen maritime governance, improve safety standards, and enhance environmental protection across West and Central Africa,” he said.
The workshop reflects Africa’s commitment to safer, cleaner, and more efficient shipping, while promoting regional cooperation and capacity building.
IMO Reaffirms Support for Regional Maritime Safety
Delivering a goodwill message, Captain Ahmed Sewelam of the IMO emphasized the importance of harmonized PSC practices to eliminate substandard shipping.
“Effective regional cooperation and harmonised PSC practices are essential to eliminate substandard shipping and promote consistency across the region. This workshop allows delegates to enhance capacity, discuss inspection procedures, and develop performance improvement strategies,” he said.
Abuja MoU Focuses on Capacity Building
The Secretary-General of the Abuja MoU, Captain Sunday Umoren, highlighted that strengthening Flag State control directly improves Port State Control quality. He urged continued capacity building, cooperation, and experience sharing to uphold high maritime safety standards.
The five-day workshop brought together delegates from 22 countries across West and Central Africa, aiming to:
- Deepen regional PSC capacity
- Harmonize inspection procedures
- Improve compliance with international maritime conventions
NIMASA’s Commitment to Maritime Safety
The initiative marks another milestone in NIMASA’s efforts to enhance maritime safety, protect the environment, and assert Nigeria’s leadership in regional maritime development.
“Together, we can strengthen Port State Control implementation and advance maritime safety and sustainability in the region,” said Captain Sewelam.
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