Nigeria and Gambia have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening seafarers’ documentation and maritime digitalisation, while pointing to the importance of regional collaboration in advancing efficient, secure and globally compliant seafarer certification systems.

This was highlighted during a four-day study visit by officials of the Gambia Maritime Administration (GMA) to the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) in Lagos.

At the programme, NIMASA and officials of the Gambia Maritime Administration engaged on procedures for the issuance of seafarers’ medical certificates, conduct of examinations and issuance of certificates of proficiency.

Director-General of NIMASA, Dr Dayo Mobereola, described the visit as a reflection of the strong relationship between Nigeria and The Gambia and the growing collaboration between both maritime administrations and, by extension, both countries.

Mobereola, who represented the Executive Director, Operations of NIMASA, Fatai Adeyemi, said such engagements provide valuable opportunities 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 recognition of the progress Nigeria has made in maritime administration and human capacity development.

He noted that the progress recorded by NIMASA in digital transformation, maritime administration, and human capacity development has been significantly driven by the policy direction and unwavering support of the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy.

Also, the Manager, Ship Registry and Seafarers Affairs at the GMA, Falu Sey, said NIMASA was selected because of Nigeria’s strides in maritime development, digital transformation and leadership in advancing the blue economy.

“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 stated.