NIMASA sets to enforce full implementation of ISPS code

The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, (NIMASA) on Monday again restated its position in ensuring the full implementation and enforcement of the International Ships and Ports Facility Security (ISPS) code in the nation’s ports.

The Director General, Dr. Dakuku Peterside stated this at the opening ceremony of a five-day training programme facilitated by the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) in conjunction with NIMASA on ISPS code compliance in Lagos.

Dr. Peterside observed that skilled, efficient and talented workers are critical to the growth of the maritime sector assuring NIMASA will continually equip its staff with new knowledge, skills and technologies necessary to ensure compliance with the ISPS Code.

According to the DG, “our people and values are hallmarks of  a good and strong organization. Recognizing that our greatest asset is our people, the leadership of the maritime industry in Nigeria, is committed to building a skilled, talented and effective workforce. That is why we take advantage of every training programme to equip our people and prepare them for new challenges that come up daily in the course of carrying out their assignments”.

He also disclosed that in pursuit of its vision to reposition the maritime industry, NIMASA has developed an in-house training initiative to continuously update the skills of its staff and keep them in tune with various developments in the industry.

While assuring the participants that the training will be continuous, Dr. Peterside also said that the Agency as the Designated Authority (DA) for the implementation of ISPS Code, will work with local and International stakeholders to develop quality industry specific training for its staff, to enhance their performance and productivity in the line of duty.

The DG also used the opportunity to thank the Minister of Transportation, Rt. Hon. Rotimi Amaechi for showing rare leadership in the maritime industry. “Things are turning around in the maritime industry because we have a Minister who understands that the industry offers Nigeria a great opportunity to leapfrog our economy”, he stated.

The ISPS Code training which is being facilitated by consultants from the IMO for the staff of NIMASA, NIWA, NPA and the Federal Ministry of Transportation,  involved in its implementation, is intended to bridge the knowledge gaps and strengthen the code’s execution in Nigeria.