The International Maritime Organization, IMO, has applauded Nigeria on the implementation of the International Ships and Ports Security, ISPS Code, even as the Designated Authority, DA, the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, NIMASA, remain unrelenting in its efforts at ensuring full compliance in all port facilities in the country.

Speaking at a week long training workshop by IMO officials for implementation officers drawn from agencies under the Federal Ministry of Transportation, FMOT, in Lagos, the Director General of NIMASA, Dr. Dakuku Peterside, represented by the Executive Director, Maritime Labour and Cabotage Services, Alhaji Gambo Ahmed, thanked the IMO for providing the technical support, review mechanism through audit and assessment efforts which has translated to the 90% compliance level achieved thus far.

Notwithstanding, NIMASA assured the IMO technical team that “We do not wish to rest on our laurels as the zeal to acquire 100% compliance in all port facilities can only be achieved if the officers are fully equipped and updated on international standards required for ISPS Code implementation”

The NIMASA Director General assured the IMO team that Nigeria is determined to provide safe and secured ports for maritime operations in Nigeria.

Executive Director Operations, Engr. Rotimi Fashkin, reiterated that  the philosophy of the Code is not mere establishment of common security Standards  for ships and ports facilities around the world but the entrenchment of a system that is self-sustaining and self-examining.

According to him “The Training Exercise is not an attempt at fulfilling all righteousness, devoid of substance and impact but intended to put NIMASA, as the DA in a good position to test, execute and implement the Drill/Concept of the ISPS Code completely”.

The IMO team lead by Brian Crammer has Daniel Donovan and Terry Ajobena as members.

While admitting that 100% compliance level in implementation of the ISPS Code is near impossible to attain, Mr. Crammer said the IMO was very happy with Nigeria’s efforts and commitment.

In his words “Nigeria has done very well so far but the government through the Agency (NIMASA) needs to constantly inspect, monitor and carry out audit schemes on ports facilities to ensure compliance among operators of such facilities. This not very easy but with the kind of commitment demonstrated by Nigeria so far, I will not be surprised if it is achieved”.

The training is expected to further strengthen implementation efforts by NIMASA in Nigeria, bring about greater awareness and make Nigerian ports safer and more secured for maritime activities.