Tanzania has made public her desire to back Nigeria’s bid to be in the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Category C at its biennial conference slated for November 2025 in London, United Kingdom.
To this end, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) and its Tanzanian counterpart, Tanzania Shipping Agencies Corporation (TASAC) have resolved to deepen cooperation in knowledge sharing in the areas of flag and port state control, seafarer development and certification, cabotage regime implementation, maritime security, and digital transformation of processes among others.
This was the thrust of deliberations during a working visit by TASAC to NIMASA led by its Vice Chairman, Rukia D Shante.
The support of the Tanzanian Government for Nigeria’s bid to seek election into Category C at the IMO is a big boost as she needs the support of member nations to clinch the coveted seat.
Apparently pleased with the development, the Director General of NIMASA, Dr. Dayo Mobereola was quoted in a statement signed by NIMASA Assistant Director and Head Public Relations, Mr. Edwrd Osagie describing the relationship between Nigeria and Tanzania as mutually beneficial as it would serve as a foundation for a strategic long-term collaboration between Nigeria and Tanzania.
According to the statement which was made available to Maritime Bits, Mobereola was quoted saying that this study visit represents a valuable opportunity for our agencies to share expertise, best practices, and innovative solutions to common maritime challenges.
“We are not only here to share what we have achieved but also to learn from TASAC. We view this as a mutually beneficial partnership and our Honorable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola had endorsed the initiative”, he added.
The Director General of TASAC, Mr. Mohammed Salumu in his opening remarks applauded NIMASA’s regulatory reforms and technical progress, particularly in maritime security and seafarers development while also indicating Tanzania’s intention to throw its weight behind Nigeria’s IMO Category C bid.
Salumu who was represented by TASAC Director of Maritime Safety, Security and Environmental Protection, Mrs. Leticia Mutaki said: “Our presence here today reflects the strong and growing cooperation between our two institutions and of our shared commitment to advancing maritime safety, security and environmental stewardship across the African continent.
“Your deep blue security framework is impressive, and your investments in human capacity development are commendable. Tanzania is keen to learn from your systems, especially in areas of certification, flag state inspections, and seafarer welfare.”
On Nigeria’s quest for a Category C seat at the IMO, she said: We believe Nigeria’s position on the IMO Council is vital for the region and the continent at large. Tanzania will continue to support this ambition,”
