– Commence 3rd phase of NSDP
Vincent Toritseju
Lagos — THE Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, NIMASA, has commenced moves to replace foreign seafarers with qualified Nigerian seafarers this is just as the agency plans to commence the third phase of the National Seafarers Development Programme, NSDP.
Speaking Tuesday at the 2024 World Seafarers’ Day in Lagos, NIMASA’s Director General, Dr Dayo Mobereola said that certain positions such as Ratings and Officer of the Watch will be designated as “no longer available” for foreign Seafarers to occupy.
Mobereola also said that some other positions may be considered based on merit for foreigners to occupy.
He explained that the Agency is exploring avenues to create jobs for our seafarers, including collaborating with government agencies like the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) and the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS).
He said: “Seafarers are the backbone of global trade. They brave challenging conditions, ensuring over 80% of the world’s trade reaches its destination. Their dedication strengthens not only the international economy, but more importantly, the well-being of their home nation, Nigeria.
“However, we recognize the humongous challenges seafarers face, including war zones, pirates, and exposure to health risks. We also acknowledge that some basic rights, such as proper insurance and compensation, are not always guaranteed. This is a call to action for all stakeholders, government, ship-owners, and us at NIMASA – to address these issues and prioritize seafarer welfare.
“I wish to state that the Agency’s human capacity building initiatives have resulted in the training and retraining of Nigerian Seafarers to acquire the required skills in line with industry needs. We have prioritized the training programmes/courses to enable the seafarers acquire the relevant advanced certificates that will enhance their employment opportunities.
“In the area of employment of Seafarers, the Agency through the introduction of the New Cabotage Compliance Strategy on Manning has ensured that all foreign Seafarer Ratings and some category of officers onboard Cabotage Vessels are immediately replaced with qualified Nigerian Seafarers.
“The Third phase of the Nigerian Seafarers’ Development program aims to graduate 435 officers.
Many trainees are currently undergoing mandatory sea-time training on-board ocean-going vessels. The challenge lies in securing placements for these qualified seafarers, but we are working to resolve this issue.
“The Agency is exploring avenues to create jobs for our seafarers, including collaborating with government agencies like the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) and the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS).
“Soon, certain positions such as Ratings and Officer of the Watch will be designated as “no longer available” for foreign Seafarers to occupy. However, some other positions may be considered based on merit for foreigners to occupy.
“Let me inform this esteemed gathering, that the Agency is working tirelessly to strengthen its legal framework by domesticating all Maritime Labour related ILO Conventions ratified by Nigeria. These conventions include the Maritime Labour Conventions (MLC) 2006 as amended, the Seafarers Identity Document (SID) Convention as amended, and the Dock Work Convention.
“Nigeria has the potential to be a maritime powerhouse. To achieve this, we must focus on a three-pronged approach.
“We need to bridge the gap in understanding of the maritime industry, attracting young minds with fulfilling career paths.
‘Equipping seafarers with continuous learning opportunities and a service-oriented mindset will unlock their full potential.
“We must promote female participation and ensure qualified Nigerians secure placements on vessels. We will launch youth-focused programs to educate and empower the next generation, preparing them to contribute to a sustainable maritime future. Investing in smart ship technologies will further promote a clean environment.
“Furthermore, I wish to reiterate the Agency’s resolve towards tackling the menace of piracy and sea robbery which has significantly reduced since the operationalization of our maritime assets under the Deep Blue Project.
“As we embark on this momentous occasion, I extend our deepest gratitude to the esteemed Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, our valued sister agencies, and all esteemed stakeholders. We are particularly appreciative of the unwavering support of the Merchant Navy/Maritime Workers’ Union Nigeria, and indeed, all our partners who have come together to make this event a reality.’
