NIMASA, Gambia Deepen Cooperation On Seafarers’ Documentation, Digitalisation

yusufThe Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) and the Gambia Maritime Administration (GMA) have strengthened cooperation on seafarers’ documentation and maritime digitalisation, with both countries reaffirming their commitment to regional collaboration aimed at improving maritime administration and certification standards across Africa.

The renewed partnership was highlighted during a four-day study visit by officials of the Gambia Maritime Administration to NIMASA, where both sides exchanged knowledge and experiences on digital seafarer certification systems and maritime regulatory processes.

Speaking during the visit, the Executive Director, Operations of NIMASA, Engr. Fatai Taiye Adeyemi, who represented the Director General of NIMASA, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, described the engagement as a reflection of the strong relationship between Nigeria and The Gambia and the growing cooperation between their maritime administrations.

According to him, the visit provided a valuable platform for knowledge sharing and capacity development within Africa’s maritime sector.

“We are delighted to share our experiences in digitalising seafarers’ documentation and certification processes. The decision by our Gambian colleagues to choose NIMASA for this study visit is a recognition of the progress Nigeria has made in maritime administration and human capacity development,” Adeyemi said.

He stressed the importance of sustained regional cooperation, noting that African maritime institutions can achieve greater efficiency and global competitiveness through collaboration.

“There is always something to learn from one another. Such engagements strengthen regional cooperation and help build a more efficient and globally competitive maritime sector across Africa,” he added.

Adeyemi attributed NIMASA’s achievements in digital transformation, maritime administration and human capacity development to the policy direction and support provided by the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy under the leadership of the Minister, Adegboyega Oyetola.

During the programme, officials from both agencies engaged in extensive technical sessions covering the issuance of seafarers’ medical certificates, conduct of examinations, issuance of Certificates of Proficiency, and measures designed to enhance the credibility, integrity and international acceptability of Nigeria’s seafarers’ certification system.

Leader of the Gambian delegation and Manager, Ship Registry and Seafarers Affairs at the Gambia Maritime Administration, Mr. Falu Sey, said NIMASA was selected for the study visit because of Nigeria’s impressive achievements in maritime development and digital transformation.

“We chose NIMASA because of the significant strides Nigeria has made in maritime development and digital transformation. The practical demonstrations and technical sessions have provided valuable insights that will support our efforts to strengthen maritime administration and improve service delivery in The Gambia,” Sey said.

He added that the Gambian delegation would leverage lessons from the visit to improve maritime administration back home.

“We are returning home with valuable lessons and a firm commitment to implement