The Ghana Maritime Authority (GMA) and the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) have signed a four-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at deepening maritime cooperation and enhancing safety, security and capacity development across the Gulf of Guinea.
The agreement was signed on July 1, 2026, at the NIMASA Towers in Lagos by GMA Director General, Dr. Kamal-Deen Ali, and NIMASA Director General, Dr. Dayo Mobereola.
The renewed partnership outlines collaboration in several strategic areas, including the mutual recognition of Certificates of Competency to facilitate seafarer training and employment opportunities, as well as joint maritime security operations to tackle piracy, armed robbery and terrorism in the Gulf of Guinea.
Under the agreement, both maritime regulators will also work together to strengthen cabotage enforcement while promoting institutional capacity building through expert exchanges, joint research initiatives and technical conferences.
Speaking during the signing ceremony, Dr. Kamal-Deen Ali underscored the significance of the partnership, stressing that Ghana stands to benefit from Nigeria’s extensive maritime experience.
“What GMA learns from NIMASA will help build the broader regional economy, especially given that Nigeria handles over 60 percent of vessel traffic in the Gulf of Guinea,” he said.
To ensure effective implementation of the agreement, the two institutions will establish a Joint Consultative Team led by designated focal persons. The team will meet twice a year, alternating between Accra and Lagos, to review progress and coordinate the execution of agreed initiatives.
The new MoU reflects the commitment of both countries to strengthening regional maritime governance, improving security within the Gulf of Guinea and creating greater opportunities for the maritime industry across West Africa.
Story: Patrick Asford Boadu
