By Obiabin Onukwugha
The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), says it has introduced comprehensive new standards for the education, training, assessment, examination, certification, revalidation, endorsement and medical fitness certification of Nigerian seafarers.
The reforms, issued under the Merchant Shipping (STCW) Regulations 2025, according to the agency, align with Nigeria’s seafarer development framework with the STCW Convention 1978, as amended, strengthening safety, competence and global recognition.
The agency revealed this in a statement on Tuesday, stating that key reforms include: Updated ND & HND curricula in Nautical Science and Marine Engineering Technology, developed with NBTE; Mandatory academic programmes at NIMASA-approved Maritime Education & Training Institutions (METIs), alongside qualifying sea service, for officers seeking operational and management-level Certificates of Competency; and Mandatory Bridging Courses for holders of ND/HND certificates issued on or before 3 July 2026, ahead of the December 2028 transition deadline.
Others are; Introduction of a mandatory 15-week Ratings Education and Training Programme for candidates seeking relevant Certificates of Proficiency; Mandatory use of approved Training Record Books (TRBs) for cadets and ratings undergoing approved training; and Strengthened requirements for the recognition and endorsement of foreign Certificates of Competency.
Commenting, the NIMASA Director General, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, affirmed that the newly introduced standards will enhance the quality of maritime education and training, strengthen competence of Nigerian seafarers and position them to compete more effectively in the international maritime labour market.
“NIMASA remains committed to developing a highly skilled, competent and globally competitive Nigerian maritime workforce,” the statement added.
