NIMASA and China MSA Sign MoU to Strengthen Maritime Cooperation

The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) and the China Maritime Safety Administration have signed a Memorandum of Understanding on Maritime Cooperation in Shanghai, China, deepening bilateral ties between the two countries.

According to a statement issued on Tuesday by Osagie Edward, Deputy Director and Head of Public Relations at NIMASA, the agreement establishes a framework for collaboration in six key areas: maritime safety and navigation, marine environmental protection, seafarer training, certification and rights protection, marine casualty and incident investigation, maritime transportation facilitation, and maritime security.

The signing ceremony took place at the Shanghai Seafarers Assessment Model Centre. NIMASA Director-General Dr Dayo Mobereola described the MoU as a significant milestone in the longstanding relationship between Nigeria and China. He stressed the importance of converting the agreement into practical programmes that deliver measurable benefits for both maritime sectors.

“This Memorandum of Understanding represents more than a formal agreement; it is a commitment to translate our longstanding relationship into practical maritime cooperation, shared expertise and measurable benefits for both countries. We are determined to ensure that this partnership delivers tangible outcomes for our maritime industries,” Mobereola said.

He noted that President Bola Tinubu places high value on Nigeria’s relationship with China and remains committed to expanding bilateral cooperation in the maritime sector. The initiative aligns with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda and the priorities of the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, led by Adegboyega Oyetola.

China MSA Director-General Xu Wei reaffirmed China’s support for stronger maritime cooperation with Nigeria. He highlighted China’s interest in Nigeria’s maritime development and acknowledged progress already made in the sector, pledging continued assistance for sustainable growth in both countries.

The MoU is expected to advance technical cooperation, knowledge exchange, capacity building and the sharing of best practices, while reinforcing institutional links between NIMASA and China MSA. Officials described the pact as an important step toward accelerating the growth of Nigeria’s maritime industry.