The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) has renewed its strategic partnership with the World Maritime University (WMU) in a move set to sharpen Nigeria’s maritime edge on the global stage. The new four-year Memorandum of Understanding signals a deepened commitment to developing home-grown expertise and strengthening institutional capacity across the sector.
At the signing ceremony, NIMASA’s Director General, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, described the collaboration as a cornerstone of the agency’s human capital strategy and a deliberate investment in Nigeria’s maritime future. He said officers trained at the Malmö-based university had played a pivotal role in boosting Nigeria’s technical and regulatory competence, from maritime safety administration and environmental compliance to shipping management and maritime law. Their contributions, he noted, have also strengthened Nigeria’s voice at the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and other key global platforms.
Under the renewed agreement, first signed in 2022, NIMASA will sponsor at least ten officers each year for the university’s 14-month Master of Science programme between 2026 and 2029. In addition, at least one officer annually will pursue a Master of Philosophy degree jointly delivered by the World Maritime University and the International Maritime Law Institute.
The deal extends beyond postgraduate study. It includes distance learning opportunities, executive development courses, research collaboration and technical support designed to reinforce NIMASA’s capabilities in maritime safety, environmental management, seafarer certification and the implementation of international maritime conventions. The university will also seek additional fellowships from international donors to support qualified NIMASA candidates.
Mobereola signed on behalf of the agency, while the President of the World Maritime University, Maximo Q. Mejia Jr, endorsed the agreement for the institution. Senior officials from both sides witnessed the ceremony, underscoring the significance attached to the partnership.
Founded in 1983 by the IMO, the World Maritime University was created to strengthen global maritime capacity, particularly in developing nations. Over the years, Nigeria has been among the beneficiaries, with a steady stream of trained NIMASA officers returning to bolster national maritime governance and deepen the country’s engagement in international shipping affairs.