NIMASA accredits 27 shipyards nationwide

By Seun Ibiyemi

The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) has accredited 27 registered shipyards across the country as part of its ongoing drive to enhance safety, operational efficiency, and compliance in the nation’s maritime industry.

According to a statement issued by the NIMASA, Deputy Director/Head, Public Relations, Osagie Edward, FNIPR, the accreditation exercise was carried out in line with Section 22 of the NIMASA Act, 2007, and Sections 335–339 of the Merchant Shipping Act, 2007, which empower NIMASA to regulate, license, inspect, and enforce standards for shipyard operations in Nigeria.

Out of the 27 accredited facilities, 10 are located in Lagos State, 8 in Rivers State, and 9 in Delta State. These shipyards were confirmed to have met the Agency’s stringent regulatory, safety, and operational requirements.

Speaking during the release of the list in Lagos, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, Director General of NIMASA, said the accreditation forms part of a broader initiative to promote transparency, ensure safety, and uphold quality service delivery within the country’s maritime sector.

“Our goal is to ensure that every shipyard operating in Nigeria adheres to international standards of safety, environmental protection, and operational efficiency. By maintaining a transparent and credible register of accredited facilities, we are boosting investor confidence, protecting maritime assets, and promoting sustainable industry growth,” Dr. Mobereola stated.

As part of the new framework, vessels constructed at the accredited shipyards will be assigned a Keel Identification Number (KIN) by NIMASA’s Maritime Safety and Seafarers Standards Department at the time of construction. 

This unique identifier will make the vessels eligible for an International Maritime Organization (IMO) Number, ensuring global traceability and recognition.

NIMASA explained that the verification and accreditation process is continuous, designed to uphold excellence across the maritime value chain. 

The Agency reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining an updated and transparent registry of accredited facilities to enhance industry confidence, protect investments, and align Nigeria’s shipbuilding and repair operations with global best practices.

A comprehensive list of the accredited shipyards is available on the NIMASA website at: https://nimasa.gov.ng/list-of-registered-and-licensed-shipyards/.