Nigeria and Tanzania have signed a new maritime cooperation agreement aimed at improving safety at sea, developing seafarer skills, and strengthening digital systems in the maritime sector.
The agreement was signed through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) and the Tanzania Shipping Agencies Corporation.
The MoU was formalised during a bilateral meeting held on the sidelines of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) General Assembly. It was endorsed by the Director-General of NIMASA and Tanzania’s Alternate Permanent Representative to the IMO.
Both sides said the agreement creates a clear framework for closer cooperation, better maritime governance, and continuous sharing of knowledge between the two countries.
Under the agreement, Nigeria and Tanzania will work together in key areas such as maritime surveillance, cabotage administration, seafarer training, and the use of digital information systems. These areas are seen as important for improving oversight, increasing transparency, and making maritime operations more efficient for shipping and marine-related businesses.
The Director-General of NIMASA described the agreement as a forward-looking move for Africa’s maritime future. He said it shows a shared commitment to stronger surveillance systems, better-trained seafarers, and more effective management of coastal shipping.
He also noted that expanding digital platforms and knowledge exchange would improve efficiency and support long-term growth in the sector.
Tanzania’s representative also welcomed the partnership, calling it the beginning of a new phase in regional maritime cooperation. She said the agreement would strengthen maritime governance, improve operational capacity, and help build strong and sustainable maritime institutions.
Senior officials from both countries attended the meeting, including the Chairman of the NIMASA Governing Board, executive directors of the agency, and Nigeria’s Alternate Permanent Representative to the IMO. Their presence highlighted the importance both countries attach to the agreement.
Industry stakeholders say the partnership will help Nigeria and Tanzania play a stronger role in shaping Africa’s maritime development agenda.
For small and medium-sized businesses in shipping, logistics, fisheries, and marine services, better surveillance, skilled seafarers, and digitalised regulations are expected to reduce risks, improve compliance, and create new opportunities in Africa’s growing blue economy.
