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Compliance & Legal Framework

Ensuring adherence to national maritime legislation and international conventions to maintain the highest standards of safety and security.

National Legal Framework

The Nigerian maritime sector is governed by a robust set of laws designed to promote safety, environmental protection, and economic growth within our waters. Our office oversees the implementation of these acts to ensure all registered vessels operate within the legal boundaries of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Merchant Shipping Act

The primary legislation for maritime safety, navigation, and seafarer welfare.

Cabotage Act

Regulating coastal and inland shipping to empower indigenous vessel owners.

Merchant Shipping Act (2007)

Consolidated legislation for the maritime industry.

Coastal & Inland Shipping Act

Also known as the Cabotage Act.

Flag State Responsibility Manual

Guidelines for vessel compliance under Nigerian flag.

International Conventions

Nigeria is a signatory to various international maritime conventions administered by the IMO, ensuring our fleet meets global standards.

SOLAS

International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea. Standards for construction, equipment, and operation.

MARPOL

International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships. Regulations to prevent operational or accidental pollution.

STCW

Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping for Seafarers. Global standards of competence for maritime personnel.

ISM Code

International Safety Management Code. An international standard for the safe management and operation of ships.

ISPS Code

International Ship and Port Facility Security Code. Comprehensive security regime for international shipping.

UNCLOS

United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. The legal framework for all ocean and maritime activities.

Flag State Obligations
Safety Oversight

Rigorous monitoring and auditing of registered vessels to ensure compliance with national and international safety codes.

Port State Coordination

Collaborating with international port authorities to manage vessel inspections and rectify non-compliance issues.

Survey Enforcement

Mandating periodic inspections and surveys conducted by recognized organizations to verify structural integrity.

Certificate Issuance

Authority to issue, renew, or revoke statutory certificates based on vessel compliance and operational performance.

Regulatory Notices

The latest circulars, advisories, and marine notices for stakeholders.

MARINE NOTICEOctober 14, 2023

MN 2023-012: Fire Safety Equipment Maintenance

Updated requirements for the periodic testing and inspection of fixed firefighting installations.

CIRCULAROctober 05, 2023

CIR 044: Electronic Certification Implementation

Transitioning to digital vessel certificates for all Nigerian registered vessels.

SANCTIONS ADVISORYSeptember 28, 2023

ADV-009: Compliance with International Trade Sanctions

Guidance for vessel owners on due diligence requirements regarding sanctioned territories.

SAFETY BULLETINSeptember 15, 2023

SB-2023: Heavy Weather Navigation Advisory

Precautionary measures for vessels operating in the Gulf of Guinea during peak monsoon seasons.

Committed to International Maritime Standards

Our office ensures that the Nigerian maritime sector remains a benchmark for safety, security, and environmental stewardship globally.