Maritime Safety: NPA Introduces Regional Capacity-Building Programme Under Abuja MoU

“Port State Control (PSC) is a critical international mechanism that acts as a “safety net” to ensure foreign-flagged ships calling at ports meet global standards for safety”

By Samuel Akpan

In a bid to enhance regional maritime safety and regulatory compliance, the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) has introduced a capacity-building initiative under the Abuja MoU on Port State Control.

According to the NPA leadership, the program represents a significant advancement for institutional strength and enforcement across West and Central Africa.

At Monday’s launch event, NPA Managing Director/CEO Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho expressed gratitude to key regional leaders, specifically recognizing Abuja MoU Chairman Hon. Ebrima Sillah (The Gambia’s Minister of Transport, Works, and Infrastructure) for his stewardship.

Dr. Dantsoho also lauded Vice-Chairman Alhaji Gboyega Oyetola (Minister of Marine and Blue Economy) and the Secretariat, headed by Captain Sunday Umoren, for their continued dedication to guiding Port State Control standards in the sub-region.

He further acknowledged the important contributions of the Lloyd’s Register Foundation in supporting the programme.

The NPA boss said the capacity building launch represents a key milestone in ongoing efforts to strengthen institutional capacity, enhance maritime governance, and support the effective implementation of Port State Control throughout the Abuja MoU Region.

Persecondnews reports that the Port State Control (PSC) is a critical international mechanism that acts as a “safety net” to ensure foreign-flagged ships calling at ports meet global standards for safety, pollution prevention, security, and seafarer welfare.

It complements the primary responsibility of flag States by allowing port authorities to inspect vessels and take enforcement action when necessary.

PSC draws its authority from provisions in major IMO conventions, including SOLAS (safety), MARPOL (pollution prevention), STCW (seafarer training), Load Lines, and others, as well as the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC) 2006 under the ILO. UNCLOS also supports port State rights in this area.

The IMO promotes regional cooperation through Resolution A.682(17), encouraging MoUs to harmonize inspections, avoid duplication, and focus resources on substandard ships.

The organization regularly updates guidance, with the latest Procedures for Port State Control, 2025 (Assembly Resolution A.1206(34)) providing detailed operational standards.