NIMASA act review: Reps kick against total repeal, push for amendment

The House of Representatives has pushed for amendments of the the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) Act of 2007 rather than a repeal.

During a recent presentation of a book titled “Nigeria’s Shipping Policy and Maritime Trade up to the Early 21st Century” by Edmund Chilaka, the House Committee on Maritime Safety, Education, and Administration highlighted the necessity of revising the 17-year-old NIMASA Act.

Represented by Rep. Adesola Adedayo Samuel (APC, Lagos), the Committee Chairperson, Rep. Khadijah Bukar Abba Ibrahim Waziri (APC, Yobe), proposed targeted amendments rather than a complete repeal and re-enactment.

Key areas for amendment as outlined by Rep. Adedayo include: “Modernisation of Terms: Updating terminology such as replacing “Free On Board (FOB)” with “Cost, Insurance, and Freight (CIF)” to align with contemporary practices.”

“Introduction of Open International Registry: Advocating for a more beneficial open registry system over the current closed registry.”

“Enhanced Prosecutorial Powers: Expanding enforcement capabilities for better compliance with Clause 59.”

“Clearer Definitions: Defining the functions of Coast Guards and specifying board appointments, similar to the structure for the CEO and Executive Directors.”

“Financial Independence: Strengthening Clause 17, subsection 7 to enhance financial autonomy.”

“Interagency Collaboration: Improving coordination and avoiding duplication of functions among government agencies.”

Stakeholders and experts at the event also emphasised the critical need to increase cargo allocations for indigenous shipowners. 

They argued that such measures would support sustainable local shipping operations and strengthen Sections 35-38 of the NIMASA Act concerning the Cabotage Vessel Financing Fund (CVFF).