Abuja MoU Extends Captain Sunday Umoren’s Tenure as Secretary-General

The Abuja Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Port State Control for West and Central African Region has approved the extension of Captain Sunday M. Umoren’s tenure as Secretary-General.

The announcement, made by the Abuja MoU Secretariat, confirmed that Umoren will continue to lead the regional body responsible for coordinating maritime safety inspections, enforcing port state control measures, and strengthening cooperation among member countries.

Captain Umoren, who first assumed office in January 2021, has been instrumental in repositioning the Abuja MoU as a key player in maritime administration within the region. Under his leadership, the organisation enhanced collaboration with the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and implemented measures to promote safer and more efficient port operations.

The extension of his tenure, according to maritime stakeholders, reflects confidence in his leadership and his commitment to strengthening maritime safety standards and environmental protection across African coastal states.

The Abuja MoU Secretariat, headquartered in Lagos, reiterated its determination to sustain reforms initiated under Umoren’s administration, including improved data-sharing systems and capacity-building for port state control officers.

Oshuniran Sheriff Ola