The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) and the Tanzania Shipping Agencies Corporation (TASAC) have reaffirmed their commitment to deepening maritime cooperation through knowledge sharing in key areas of maritime administration. This was the highlight of a strategic working visit by a Tanzanian delegation to NIMASA headquarters, where both nations pledged closer collaboration on maritime safety, security, and regulatory reforms.
The visit, led by Vice Chairman of TASAC, Rukia D. Shante, also came with a strong diplomatic backing as Tanzania formally pledged its support for Nigeria’s bid to secure a Category C seat on the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council.
Director General of NIMASA, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, described the engagement as a valuable step toward long-term, mutually beneficial collaboration between the two maritime nations. “This study visit represents a valuable opportunity for our agencies to share expertise, best practices, and innovative solutions to common maritime challenges. We are not only here to share what we’ve achieved, but also to learn from TASAC,” he said, noting that the initiative had the endorsement of Nigeria’s Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, CON.
Areas identified for knowledge exchange include Flag and Port State Control, Seafarer Development and Certification, Cabotage regime implementation, Maritime Security, and the digital transformation of maritime administrative processes.
In his opening remarks, TASAC Director General, Mr. Mohammed Salumu, represented by Mrs. Leticia Mutaki, Director of Maritime Safety, Security and Environmental Protection, praised NIMASA’s recent achievements, especially in the area of maritime security and seafarer development. He commended Nigeria’s Deep Blue Project as a model for other African nations.
“Our presence here today reflects the strong and growing cooperation between our two institutions and our shared commitment to advancing maritime safety, security, and environmental stewardship across the African continent,” Mrs. Mutaki said.
She also highlighted Tanzania’s eagerness to learn from Nigeria’s regulatory models, especially in areas such as flag state inspections, certification systems, and seafarer welfare.
Speaking on Nigeria’s IMO Category C ambition, she emphasized that Tanzania views Nigeria’s election to the Council as a critical step for the continent. “We believe Nigeria’s position on the IMO Council is vital for the region and the continent at large. Tanzania will continue to support this ambition,” she stated.
The visit signals growing maritime diplomacy between African nations and reinforces the strategic importance of regional partnerships in advancing sustainable maritime governance. Both NIMASA and TASAC are expected to formalize their cooperation further through joint initiatives and technical exchanges in the coming months.