In a strategic move to enhance regional maritime capabilities, the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) and the Tanzania Shipping Agencies Corporation (TASAC) have agreed to deepen bilateral ties focused on knowledge exchange and capacity development across various sectors of the maritime industry.
The partnership, announced during a working visit by a high-level Tanzanian delegation led by TASAC Vice Chairman, Rukia D. Shante, marks a milestone in the growing cooperation between both nations. The visit took place at the NIMASA headquarters in Lagos, with both parties pledging to collaborate in key areas including flag and port state control, seafarer certification and welfare, cabotage implementation, maritime safety and security, and digital transformation.
In his remarks, NIMASA Director-General, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, described the engagement as “a valuable opportunity for our agencies to share expertise, best practices, and innovative solutions to common maritime challenges.” He emphasized that the collaboration is not just about sharing Nigeria’s successes, but also learning from Tanzania’s maritime experiences.
Mobereola further disclosed that the partnership enjoys the full support of Nigeria’s Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, who views regional alliances as essential for the long-term sustainability of Africa’s maritime industry.
Tanzania’s support for Nigeria’s bid for re-election into Category C of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Council was also reiterated during the visit. Representing TASAC’s Director-General, Mr. Mohammed Salumu, the Director of Maritime Safety, Security, and Environmental Protection, Mrs. Leticia Mutaki, praised Nigeria’s strides in maritime security through its Deep Blue Project and its significant investments in human capital development.
“Our presence here today reflects the strong and growing cooperation between the two institutions and our shared commitment to advancing maritime safety, security, and environmental stewardship across the African continent,” Salumu stated.
He noted that Tanzania is particularly interested in learning from Nigeria’s certification systems, flag state inspections, and seafarer welfare frameworks. “The Nigerian model is commendable, and we are eager to adapt some of these practices to improve our own systems,” he added.
Salumu also stressed that Nigeria’s seat at the IMO Council is “vital for the region and the continent at large,” and confirmed Tanzania’s ongoing support for the bid, emphasizing that African voices must be well-represented in global maritime governance.
The renewed partnership comes amid a growing demand for enhanced maritime training and regulatory reforms across Africa. With over 90% of global trade conducted via sea routes, maritime safety, security, and human capital development have become essential priorities for nations looking to leverage their ports and coastlines for economic advancement.
Industry analysts have applauded the Nigeria-Tanzania collaboration, citing its potential to set a precedent for broader continental maritime integration. “Strategic partnerships like this are the building blocks of a stronger African maritime sector,” said Captain Olawale Aransi, a Lagos-based maritime consultant.
As both countries commit to long-term maritime growth, the partnership is expected to pave the way for future joint initiatives, including regional training programmes, joint maritime surveillance, and harmonised regulatory standards, thereby strengthening Africa’s collective competitiveness in global shipping.