The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) has intensified efforts to reposition Nigeria’s Ship Registry to global standards following strategic talks with the Malta Ship Registry on knowledge exchange and capacity development.
Director General of NIMASA, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, held discussions with the Registrar General of Shipping and Seamen of the Malta Ship Registry, Mr. Ivan Tabone, on the sidelines of Posidonia 2026, the premier international maritime exhibition held in Athens, Greece.
The meeting centred on critical areas including ship registration processes, regulatory efficiency, digital transformation, and institutional best practices. Both parties also explored avenues for technical cooperation aimed at enhancing the competitiveness and international appeal of the Nigerian Ship Registry.
Speaking during the engagement, Mobereola reaffirmed the Agency’s commitment to fully automating Nigeria’s Ship Registry in line with global standards. He explained that ongoing reforms are designed to improve operational efficiency, boost indigenous vessel registrations, strengthen investor confidence, and position Nigeria as a leading maritime hub in Africa.
According to him, NIMASA is building a transparent, technology-driven registry to support sustainable growth in the maritime sector, in alignment with the vision of the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy under the leadership of the Honourable Minister, Adegboyega Oyetola.
The Malta Ship Registry is widely regarded as one of the most successful globally, ranking as the largest merchant shipping register in Europe and among the top six worldwide by gross tonnage. With over 9,500 vessels under its flag, it is recognised for its robust legal framework, efficient administration, and strict compliance with international maritime standards.