…Targets global dominance as 40 officers head to Sweden under renewed capacity pact.
By Joy Odor Reportcircle News
In a bold move to tighten Nigeria’s grip on global maritime governance, the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) has renewed its high-impact strategic partnership with the World Maritime University (WMU), sealing a four-year Memorandum of Understanding aimed at supercharging the nation’s maritime human capital.
The deal, signed in Malmö, Sweden, signals a decisive push by Nigeria to consolidate its technical, regulatory and diplomatic footprint in international shipping and maritime safety.
Director-General of NIMASA, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, described the partnership as a cornerstone of the agency’s transformation agenda and a calculated investment in Nigeria’s maritime future.
“This collaboration has significantly strengthened our technical and regulatory capabilities over the years,” Mobereola declared.
“Officers trained at WMU have enhanced our effectiveness in maritime safety administration, environmental compliance, maritime law, and shipping management.
Their expertise has reinforced Nigeria’s voice at the International Maritime Organization and other global maritime platforms.”
Under the renewed pact, first initiated in 2022 NIMASA will sponsor at least 10 officers annually for the prestigious 14-month Master of Science programme at WMU from 2026 to 2029.
In addition, at least one officer each year will undertake the Master of Philosophy programme jointly delivered by WMU and the International Maritime Law Institute (IMLI) in Malta.
Beyond academic training, the agreement expands into executive courses, distance learning modules, research collaboration, and technical assistance in key areas including:
Maritime safety administration
Environmental management and compliance
Seafarer certification
Implementation of international maritime instruments
WMU is also expected to pursue additional fellowship opportunities from international donors for qualified NIMASA nominees, a move that could further boost Nigeria’s maritime expertise without additional fiscal strain.
Established in 1983 by the International Maritime Organization (IMO), WMU was created to strengthen global maritime capacity, particularly in developing nations. Over the decades, it has evolved into a leading centre of excellence, shaping maritime policy leaders worldwide.
Nigeria has been one of the key beneficiaries, with WMU-trained officers playing pivotal roles in strengthening regulatory frameworks, environmental governance, and the nation’s participation in global maritime negotiations.
The MoU was endorsed on behalf of NIMASA by Mobereola, while WMU President, Professor Maximo Q. Mejia Jr., signed for the University. Executive Director, Finance and Administration at NIMASA, Chudi Offodile, and WMU Registrar, Mr. Peter Marriott, signed as witnesses.
Industry watchers say the renewed alliance sends a strong signal that Nigeria is not merely content with coastal relevance but is positioning itself as a serious maritime power in international waters.
With the global shipping industry facing mounting regulatory and environmental pressures, Nigeria’s investment in high-level maritime education may prove decisive in shaping its competitiveness and compliance standing in the years ahead.
For NIMASA, the message is unmistakable: capacity development is no longer optional, it is strategic warfare in the battle for maritime supremacy.
