The Director General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dr. Dayo Mobereola, has emphasised that effective Port State Control (PSC) remains one of the most powerful mechanisms for ensuring global shipping safety and maintaining environmental standards.
Mobereola stated this at the five-day Regional Train-the-Trainer Workshop on Port State Control for Member States of the Abuja Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), organised with the support of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO).
Represented by NIMASA’s Executive Director, Operations, Engr. Fatai Adeyemi, the Director General underscored that the success of Port State Control largely depends on the competence and professionalism of those charged with its implementation.
“Your presence here demonstrates our collective resolve to strengthen efficient maritime governance, improve safety standards, and enhance environmental protection across West and Central Africa”, he stated.
Mobereola commended the IMO, the Abuja MoU Secretariat, and all technical partners for their sustained efforts in promoting capacity-building, regional cooperation, and maritime safety across Africa.
He described the workshop as a reflection of Africa’s shared commitment to achieving safer, cleaner, and more efficient shipping practices.
Delivering a goodwill message on behalf of the IMO, Captain Ahmed Sewelam reaffirmed the Organisation’s commitment to assisting Member States through its technical cooperation programmes aimed at strengthening effective and harmonised PSC regimes globally.
“Effective regional cooperation and harmonised PSC practices are essential to eliminate substandard shipping and promote consistency across the regionj Sewelam said.
“This workshop provides a unique platform for delegates to build collective capacity as Port States, review inspection procedures, improve reporting, and develop strategies for enhanced performance.
“Together, we can strengthen Port State Control implementation and advance maritime safety and sustainability in the region”.
Also speaking, the Secretary General of the Abuja MoU, Captain Sunday Umoren, reiterated that capacity building remains a top priority for the organisation. He noted that robust Flag State control directly influences the effectiveness of Port State Control, stressing the need for stronger national maritime systems.
“We must continue to build capacity, strengthen cooperation, and share experiences to ensure that our region maintains high standards of maritime safety and compliance”, he said.
The Train-the-Trainer Workshop on Port State Control under the Abuja MoU marks another milestone in NIMASA’s commitment to enhancing maritime safety, protecting the marine environment, and consolidating Nigeria’s leadership role in regional maritime development.
The workshop, hosted in Lagos, brings together delegates from 22 countries across West and Central Africa to deepen capacity, harmonise standards, and strengthen maritime safety oversight throughout the region.