President Tinubu Strengthens Nigeria's Maritime Safety with Strategic IMO Accession

President Tinubu's Maritime Milestone

President Bola Tinubu has made a significant stride in transforming Nigeria's maritime landscape by signing instruments of accession for six pivotal Conventions of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO). This landmark move is designed to elevate Nigeria's maritime governance, boosting safety, security, and environmental protection within the industry. By embracing international standards, Nigeria is not only promoting safety on its waters but also positioning itself as a key player on the global maritime stage. The initiative is a crucial step in aligning Nigeria's practices with those of other maritime giants, ensuring that it remains competitive and compliant with international norms.

Conventions Driving Maritime Safety

The journey to enhancing maritime safety begins with these six powerful conventions. The first is the instrument of accession of the Protocol of 2005 to the 1988 Protocol for the Suppression of Unlawful Acts against the Safety of Fixed Platforms on the Continental Shelf. This strategic move addresses the urgent need for robust measures to counter threats and unlawful acts that may jeopardize the safety of maritime structures. The second, the Instrument of Accession of the International Convention of Standards of Training, Certification, and Watch-keeping for Fishing Vessel Personnel 1995, emphasizes the critical importance of proper training and certification in the fishing sector.

Furthermore, Tinubu has signed the Instrument of Accession of the Protocol Relating to Intervention on the High Seas in cases of pollution by substances other than oil, 1973, as Amended. This is a clear commitment to tackling the diverse environmental challenges faced by the maritime industry, spotlighting the need for intervention protocols to combat pollution. The fourth signed instrument is the Accession to the Protocol of 1996 to Amend the Convention on Limitation of Liability for Maritime Claims 1976, which introduces modernized measures for handling maritime claims with more equitable liability limitations.

Enhancing Passenger and Environmental Safety

Among the other conventions signed is the Instrument of Accession to the Protocol to the 1974 Athens Convention Relating to the Carriage of Passengers and their Luggage by Sea, 2002. This particular convention underscores the necessity of passenger welfare and clarifies the obligations and liabilities of carriers. It seeks to provide enhanced protection and assurance, addressing concerns about passengers' rights during maritime travel. Rounding out the set is the Instrument of Accession to the Hong Kong International Convention for the Safe and Environmentally Sound Recycling of Ships, 2009. This convention signifies Nigeria's commitment to eco-friendly ship recycling practices, ensuring that ship dismantling is safe and sustainable for the environment and workers alike.

Strengthening Industry Relationships

The signing of these conventions marks a collaborative effort between various governmental departments and agencies. Dr. Dayo Mobereola, Director-General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), took the opportunity to thank the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, for his role in facilitating the signing process. Over the years, these conventions had been pending within the ministry, and the effort to clear these hurdles reflects a newfound urgency in addressing Nigeria's maritime needs. Oyetola reassured stakeholders of the President’s dedication to nurturing the maritime industry in line with global best practices. This commitment extends not only to safety and security measures but also to ensuring that the environment is protected from potential harm caused by maritime activities.

As a next step, the formal deposition of these six instruments of ratification will be jointly handled by the supervising ministry and NIMASA. This action seals Nigeria's resolve to adhere to international maritime standards, reaffirming its status among the world's leading maritime nations. With these robust frameworks in place, Nigeria is aiming to offer a safer, more environmentally conscious maritime environment, fostering increased investment and confidence in its maritime sector.