Participants in a Group Photograph during the Regional Train-the-Trainer workshop on Port State Control Inspecti on under the Abuja Mou held in Lagos.
The Director General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dr. Dayo Mobereola, has declared that effective Port State Control (PSC) remains one of the world’s strongest weapons in securing safer seas and protecting the marine environment from harmful shipping practices.
Speaking at a high-level 5-day Regional Train-the-Trainer Workshop on Port State Control for Member States of the Abuja Memorandum of Understanding (MoU)—supported by the International Maritime Organization (IMO)—Mobereola stressed that the competence of those implementing PSC determines the success or failure of global maritime safety.
Represented by the Executive Director, Operations, Engr. Fatai Taiye Adeyemi, the DG applauded the gathering as a powerful display of Africa’s united drive toward safer, cleaner, and more efficient maritime operations.
“Your presence shows our collective determination to elevate maritime governance, strengthen safety standards, and protect the marine environment across West and Central Africa,” he said.
Mobereola commended the IMO, the Abuja MoU Secretariat, and all technical partners for their unwavering support in boosting capacity, enhancing cooperation, and advancing maritime safety across the continent.
Delivering the IMO’s goodwill message, Captain Ahmed Sewelam reaffirmed the agency’s solid commitment to helping member states build stronger and more harmonized Port State Control systems. He emphasized that coordinated regional action and uniform practices are essential in eliminating substandard ships from African waters.
“The workshop creates an excellent platform for member states to deepen technical expertise, refine inspection procedures, improve reporting mechanisms, and boost overall performance,” Sewelam stated. “Together, we can strengthen PSC implementation and push maritime safety and sustainability to new heights.”
Also speaking, the Secretary General of the Abuja MoU, Captain Sunday Umoren, reiterated that capacity building remains the backbone of the organization. He noted that strong national systems and effective Flag State control directly influence the quality and outcome of PSC operations.
“We must keep building capacity, enhancing cooperation, and sharing experiences to maintain high safety and compliance standards across our region,” he emphasized.
The Train-the-Trainer Workshop marks another landmark in NIMASA’s ongoing efforts to fortify maritime safety, safeguard the environment, and position Nigeria as a leading force in regional maritime development.
Delegates from 22 countries across West and Central Africa are participating in the Lagos workshop, strengthening collaboration, harmonizing standards, and expanding the region’s oversight capabilities for safer seas.
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