The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) has issued a directive urging all international oil companies, terminal and jetty operators, and stevedoring companies within Nigeria’s maritime sector to cease engagement with unregistered dockworkers.
This directive, according to the agency, comes as part of efforts to bolster compliance with national and international standards in maritime labour operations.
To ensure adherence, NIMASA has said it has introduced a 30-day moratorium, providing a window for stakeholders, including dock labour employers and stevedoring companies, to apply for new operating licences or renew expired ones.
The requirement aligns with the stipulations of the NIMASA Act of 2007 and the Stevedoring Regulations of 2014, both of which mandate strict compliance for all maritime operators within the country.
Dr. Dayo Mobereola, NIMASA’s Director General, emphasised the importance of adhering to existing regulations, stating, “No terminal or company shall continue to engage the services of unregistered dockworkers for cargo handling at their work locations. This measure is part of our broader mission to create a safe, regulated, and efficient environment in Nigeria’s maritime industry.”
Mobereola explained that compliance will enable NIMASA to maintain a comprehensive, up-to-date database of dockworkers and enhance its planning and workforce development efforts.
He said the agency remains committed to elevating the standards of dockworkers to meet global benchmarks, with strict enforcement set to follow at the close of the moratorium period.
The NIMASA Act of 2007, Part IX, Section 27, outlines the registration and regulatory requirements for maritime labour, including dockworkers, entrusting NIMASA with the responsibility to uphold industry standards in line with international best practices.
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