The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) and the Tanzania Shipping Agencies Corporation (TASAC) have embarked on a collaborative journey to enhance maritime capabilities and knowledge sharing across both nations. This partnership focuses on crucial areas such as flag and port state control, seafarer development and certification, cabotage regime implementation, maritime security, and the digitalization of maritime processes. This collaborative effort stems from a working visit by TASAC to NIMASA, led by Rukia D Shante, Vice Chairman of TASAC, signaling a deepening of ties and a commitment to mutual growth in the maritime sector. This visit underscores the burgeoning relationship between the two maritime authorities, aiming to leverage shared experiences and expertise for the advancement of maritime practices in both countries.
The core objective of this partnership is to foster a platform for the exchange of best practices, innovative solutions, and technical knowledge in addressing common maritime challenges. NIMASA’s Director-General, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, emphasized the reciprocal nature of this collaboration, highlighting that both agencies are committed to learning from each other’s successes and challenges. This collaborative learning approach extends beyond mere information sharing to encompass a strategic long-term cooperation endorsed by the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, solidifying the governmental support for this initiative. The partnership seeks to optimize maritime operations and regulatory frameworks by drawing upon the strengths of both NIMASA and TASAC. This includes exploring effective strategies for implementing cabotage regimes, enhancing maritime security measures, and streamlining processes through digital transformation.
Further solidifying the collaborative spirit, Tanzania has pledged its support for Nigeria’s bid for a Category C seat on the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Council. This endorsement, voiced by TASAC Director-General Mr. Mohammed Salumu, highlights the recognition of Nigeria’s growing influence and expertise in the maritime domain. Mr. Salumu, represented by Mrs. Leticia Mutaki, Director of Maritime Safety, Security, and Environmental Protection at TASAC, lauded NIMASA’s regulatory reforms and advancements in maritime security and seafarer development, signifying the mutual respect and acknowledgement of achievements between the two organizations. Tanzania’s backing of Nigeria’s IMO bid underscores the shared vision for a stronger African presence and voice in global maritime affairs. This support signals a united front on the international stage and the belief in Nigeria’s capacity to effectively contribute to the IMO’s mission of enhancing global maritime safety and security.
The TASAC delegation expressed particular interest in gaining insights from NIMASA’s experience in certification, flag state inspections, and seafarer welfare. This targeted learning approach reflects Tanzania’s commitment to strengthening its own maritime practices by drawing upon Nigeria’s expertise in these critical areas. Mr. Salumu specifically commended Nigeria’s deep blue security framework and investments in human capacity development, recognizing these as areas of significant progress and potential learning opportunities for Tanzania. This focus on specific areas allows for a more in-depth exchange of knowledge and practical strategies, fostering a more impactful collaboration. By leveraging Nigeria’s advancements in these areas, Tanzania aims to enhance its maritime regulatory framework and improve the overall welfare and training of its seafarers.
A key element of this partnership revolves around knowledge sharing in critical areas like flag and port state control. These mechanisms are fundamental to ensuring the safety of ships, the prevention of maritime pollution, and the compliance of vessels with international regulations. By collaborating in these areas, NIMASA and TASAC aim to harmonize their regulatory approaches, strengthen their inspection capabilities, and improve the overall efficiency of their port operations. This collaborative effort is crucial for maintaining high standards of maritime safety and security within their respective jurisdictions and contributing to the overall safety of the global maritime network. Through shared training programs, joint inspections, and the exchange of best practices, the two agencies can enhance their capabilities and ensure that vessels operating within their waters adhere to international standards.
The partnership further emphasizes cooperation in seafarer development and certification, recognizing the vital role of skilled and competent seafarers in the maritime industry. By sharing expertise in training programs, certification processes, and seafarer welfare initiatives, NIMASA and TASAC aim to elevate the standards of seafaring professions in both countries. This focus on human capital development is essential for ensuring a sustainable and qualified maritime workforce equipped to navigate the complexities of the modern maritime landscape. This collaborative effort not only benefits the seafarers themselves but also contributes to the overall safety and efficiency of maritime operations within both nations. By promoting high standards of training and certification, NIMASA and TASAC contribute to a more skilled and professional maritime workforce in the region and beyond.
