NLNG Shipping and Marine Services Limited (NSML) has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Lloyd’s Register (LR) to provide specialised training and consultancy services aimed at boosting maritime competence, ensuring regulatory compliance and enhancing operational efficiency across West Africa.
The training will focus on key areas including class and statutory requirements, ship type-specific instruction, International Safety Management (ISM) Code and management systems, port management, business improvement, environmental management and health and safety standards.
Announced at Gastech 2025, the agreement will expand access to maritime training and advisory services for Nigerian and other West African seafarers in line with international standards.
The partnership combines NSML’s strong local presence and training infrastructure, anchored by its Maritime Centre of Excellence (MCoE) in Bonny, Rivers State, with Lloyd’s Register’s global technical expertise and advisory capabilities.
Under the MoU, the courses that will be jointly developed and delivered in West Africa will carry both the LR and NSML logos, serving as a mark of assurance for industry stakeholders.
The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of NSML, Abdulkadir Ahmed, noted that West Africa plays a pivotal role in global Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) exports, stressing that the competence of maritime professionals is key to sustaining that position.
He said by partnering with Lloyd’s Register, NSML can build capacity that supports not only West Africa but the wider African maritime industry.
Ahmed added that the partnership aligns with NSML’s mission of providing world-class integrated shipping and maritime services while fostering international maritime skills and standards in Nigeria.
“Our vision is to be a recognised international leader in integrated shipping and maritime services, providing innovative and sustainable maritime solutions,” he stated.
The Business Director and Senior Representative for Africa at Lloyd’s Register, Ngozi Gwam, described the MoU as a strategic alignment of strengths and a demonstration of both organisations’ commitment to delivering globally benchmarked yet locally relevant solutions.
She said seafarers are at the heart of shipping’s transition, adding that through the partnership, they will be equipped with the skills to operate safely, sustainably, and in compliance with evolving regulatory and environmental requirements.
Gwam emphasised that the collaboration advances the objectives of the MoU, spanning training, advisory services, governance, safety, and innovation, while delivering impact not just for Nigeria and West Africa, but for Africa’s maritime industry and the global shipping sector.
“With NSML’s Maritime Centre of Excellence and LR’s international expertise, we are building a platform for capacity development that meets today’s needs and prepares for tomorrow’s opportunities,” she added.
