As part of efforts to enshrine safety and well-regulated operations for dockworkers, the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) has directed International Oil Companies (IOCs), seaport terminals, jetty operators, and other companies to mandatorily register their dockworkers.
NIMASA disclosed this in a press statement disseminated on Friday, signed by the agency’s Head of Public Relations, Mr. Osagie Edwards, on Friday.
The nation’s apex maritime regulator stressed that compliance with this regulation will enhance its ability to maintain an up-to-date database of dockworkers operating in the country.
Part of the statement read: “The management of the NIMASA has advised International Oil Companies, terminal and jetty operators, and all other companies involved in stevedoring in the country to refrain from engaging unregistered dockworkers.
“This move is part of our broader effort to ensure safe and regulated operations within Nigeria’s maritime industry. It also improves our planning processes, as we are committed to developing their capacity to meet globally accepted standards for dockworkers in Nigeria. We intend to enforce full compliance after the moratorium period.
“All stakeholders, including dock labor employers and stevedoring companies, are encouraged to apply for new operating licenses or renew expired ones within a 30-day moratorium period. This requirement is stipulated by the NIMASA Act of 2007 and outlined in the NIMASA Stevedoring Regulations of 2014, which mandates strict compliance from all maritime operators.”
The Agency’s Director General, Dr. Dayo Mobereola noted the need for stakeholders to comply with extant laws and regulations, stating, “no terminal or company shall continue to engage the services of unregistered dockworkers for cargo handling at their work locations.”
The NIMASA Act, 2007, Part IX, Section 27, addresses the registration of Dockworkers which focuses on Maritime Labour. It ensures the Registration, Regulation, and control of Maritime Labour, including dockworkers. The Act assigns the Agency the responsibility of maintaining standards in accordance with international best practices.
Meanwhile, NIMASA advised stakeholders to consult its website for further information on the regulation and other inquiries.
