The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) has introduced comprehensive new standards governing the education, training, assessment, examination, certification, revalidation, endorsement and medical fitness certification of Nigerian seafarers.
The reforms, contained in the Merchant Shipping (STCW) Regulations 2025, are designed to align Nigeria’s seafarer development framework with the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW) 1978, as amended.
NIMASA said the new standards would strengthen safety and professional competence while enhancing the global recognition and competitiveness of Nigerian seafarers.
Under the reforms, updated National Diploma (ND) and Higher National Diploma (HND) curricula in Nautical Science and Marine Engineering Technology have been developed in collaboration with the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE).
The new framework also makes academic programmes at NIMASA-approved Maritime Education and Training Institutions (METIs), combined with qualifying sea service, mandatory for officers seeking operational and management-level Certificates of Competency.
NIMASA further introduced mandatory Bridging Courses for holders of ND and HND certificates issued on or before July 3, 2026. The courses are required ahead of the December 2028 transition deadline.
Another major change is the introduction of a mandatory 15-week Ratings Education and Training Programme for candidates seeking relevant Certificates of Proficiency.
The agency also made the use of approved Training Record Books (TRBs) mandatory for cadets and ratings undergoing approved training, aimed at ensuring that practical training and competence acquired at sea are properly documented and assessed.
The reforms equally strengthen requirements for the recognition and endorsement of foreign Certificates of Competency, ensuring that holders meet applicable Nigerian and international standards.
Speaking on the development, NIMASA Director-General, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, said the new standards would improve the quality of maritime education and training in Nigeria.
According to him, the reforms would strengthen the competence of Nigerian seafarers and position them to compete more effectively in the international maritime labour market.
Mobereola reaffirmed NIMASA’s commitment to developing a highly skilled, competent and globally competitive Nigerian maritime workforce capable of contributing meaningfully to the growth of the country’s blue economy.
The agency said the implementation of the new standards represents another step towards ensuring that Nigerian seafarers meet internationally recognised standards of competence, safety and professionalism.
