Nigeria and IMCA collaborate to enhance commercial diving training and standards

Nigeria's commercial diving sector is actively seeking to elevate its training, competence, and safety standards through collaboration with the International Marine Contractors Association (IMCA). This initiative aims to bolster the recognition of indigenous operators within the global offshore diving industry.

Discussions held in Lagos last week brought together commercial diving professionals, training institutions, regulators, and other stakeholders. A key focus was the status of Nigerian diving training institutions and the establishment of a clearer pathway for qualified local schools to meet internationally accepted requirements. Participants argued that Nigeria possesses significant commercial diving expertise and training capacity but needs stronger engagement with international bodies to address gaps in certification, standardization, and recognition.

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We want to work together with the local trade associations and the local training establishments, and understand how we can fix this problem.

Iain Grainger, CEO of IMCA, identified training as a critical challenge. He emphasized that closer collaboration with Nigerian professional bodies and training institutions is a priority for IMCA's next steps. "We want to work together with the local trade associations and the local training establishments, and understand how we can fix this problem," Grainger stated, highlighting the need to address future industry challenges collaboratively.

Representing the Nigerian Senate, Gbenga Daniel pledged legislative support for measures that would attract investment and promote professional development in the diving industry. Florence Owie from the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment stressed the government's commitment to ensuring that commercial diving operations prioritize the safety of divers and personnel in hazardous underwater environments, underscoring the importance of proper training, competent personnel, and adherence to safety requirements.

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That is really where I think the next stage of the engagement has to go: understanding the challenges and working together to address them.