Crewing: NMSL Achieves 85% Nigerians Target Onboard Vessels

The NLNG Shipping and Marine Service Limited (NSML) said the company has achieved an 85 per cent Nigerianisation target.

This was disclosed by the managing director of NSML, Abdulkadir Ahmed, during the unveiling of the company’s logo, reiterated the company’s commitment to prioritising Nigerian seafarers, ensuring their active participation in the NLNG shipping industry.

According to Ahmed, NSML took a rebranding decision, which it described as a deliberate effort to align with the group while maintaining individual identity and ensuring consistency within the group.

He said the NLNG logo and NSML logo clearly showed they belong to the same family yet represent distinct entities.

Ahmed further stated that the company had a Nigerianisation objective years ago was to ensure that 85 per cent of NSML’s crew across all cadres are Nigerians.

He said the Nigerianisation agenda created opportunities for local seafarers to actively participate in the NLNG shipping industry.

“Our ultimate desire is to maintain a complement of 100 per cent qualified crew capable of running vessels at any time.

Years ago, NSML set a target of 85 per cent of Nigerians working on its vessel, and we have achieved this 85 per cent Nigerianisation target, a baseline objective that fluctuates with industry dynamics.”

He stated further that while not all crew members will always be Nigerian, the 15 per cent quota for non-Nigerians allowed for cross-fertilisation of cultures and ideas.

He noted that this global inclusivity ensures adherence to international standards while enriching the company’s expertise.

“NSML employs a diverse mix of professionals, including Polish, Ukrainian, Indian, Malaysian, and Filipino crew members, who collaborate seamlessly with their Nigerian counterparts. This unified approach fosters professionalism and ensures high standards in vessel operations.”

The managing director speaking on its fleet expansion, said, “NSML consistently grows its fleet under management. Recently, the company acquired a new advanced LNG mega-vessel called Axios, which is a sister vessel to Arcturus, introduced last year.

“Axios represents cutting-edge technology and is one of the most advanced LNG vessels globally. NSML is proud to manage such vessels while providing opportunities for Nigerians to serve aboard them.

“NSML is delivering on its mandate in safety, reliability, and value. Rebranding reinforces our commitment to serving the energy logistics sector while reflecting who we are and what we do,” Ahmed stated.