NIMASA sets new standards for seafarer training and certification

The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) has launched a comprehensive overhaul of its standards for seafarers' education, training, assessment, certification, and medical fitness. This move aims to bolster Nigeria's adherence to international maritime regulations and cultivate a globally competitive seafarer workforce.

“

Under the revised regime, NIMASA, working with the National Board for Technical Education, has approved updated National Diploma and Higher National Diploma curricula in Nautical Science and Marine Engineering Technology for all Maritime Education and Training Institutions.

Osagie Edward, Deputy Director and Head of Public Relations at NIMASA, announced that the new regulatory framework, detailed in a Marine Notice, is in line with the Merchant Shipping (Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers) Regulations, 2025. It revises requirements for maritime education, training, assessment, certification, revalidation, endorsement of foreign certificates, and medical fitness, all in accordance with the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers, 1978, as amended.

Under the revised regime, NIMASA, in collaboration with the National Board for Technical Education, has approved updated National Diploma and Higher National Diploma curricula for Nautical Science and Marine Engineering Technology at all approved Maritime Education and Training Institutions. Starting October 2025, aspiring officers will need to complete these academic programs and possess qualifying sea service before being eligible for Certificates of Competency examinations.

“

Effective October 2025, prospective officers seeking operational and management level Certificates of Competency shall be required to complete the approved academic programmes at NIMASA-approved Maritime Education and Training Institutions in addition to possessing a qualifying sea service on a seagoing ship, before qualifying to sit for the Certificate of Competency examinations.

Furthermore, NIMASA has introduced mandatory Bridging Courses for holders of National Diploma or Higher National Diploma obtained on or before July 3, 2026, to help them transition to the new standards by the December 2028 deadline. A compulsory 15-week Ratings Education and Training Programme is also now in place for ratings seeking Certificates of Proficiency for navigation or engineering watch duties. NIMASA Director-General Dr. Dayo Mobereola stated that these revisions underscore the agency's commitment to aligning Nigeria's maritime manpower development with global best practices, thereby enhancing the credibility and international recognition of Nigerian seafarers.

“

The maritime industry continues to evolve, and our regulatory framework