By Sandra Chukwunyere
The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) has unveiled a digital Seafarers’ Discharge Book Management Portal as part of efforts to strengthen maritime safety standards, enhance regulatory efficiency and simplify the application and issuance of Seafarers’ Discharge Books.
The portal was launched during the 2026 Day of the Seafarer celebration in Lagos, held under the theme, “Carrying the World Trade. Carrying the Risk.” The initiative underscores the Agency’s commitment to improving service delivery, promoting digital innovation and aligning Nigeria’s maritime administration with international best practices.
Speaking at the launch, the Director General of NIMASA, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, described the platform as another milestone in the Agency’s digital transformation agenda. He said the system is designed to eliminate unnecessary delays, strengthen the integrity of the certification process and provide better support for Nigerian seafarers.
According to him, seafarers play a critical role in global trade and deserve efficient, secure and reliable systems that support their professional careers.
The online platform guides applicants through every stage of the process, beginning with verification of their National Identification Number (NIN) through integration with the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC). After successful verification, applicants create an account, confirm their email address using a One-Time Password (OTP) and complete a live facial capture for identity verification.
Applicants are then required to upload relevant documents, including their Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW) certificate and other supporting credentials. The documents are reviewed electronically by the Agency’s Shipping Master, who either approves them or returns the application with reasons for any corrections required.
Once the documentation has been cleared, applicants can select the appropriate category—new, replacement or temporary discharge book—and complete payment through the integrated online platform. After all requirements have been met, the system automatically generates a unique Seafarer’s Discharge Book serial number, completing the application process.
Mobereola said the fully automated system will reduce processing time, minimise manual handling of applications and improve the security, traceability and authenticity of seafarers’ documentation.
He added that technology remains central to NIMASA’s vision of building a modern maritime administration that meets international standards while delivering more efficient services to Nigerian seafarers and other stakeholders.
The launch of the portal further demonstrates the Agency’s commitment to digital innovation, maritime safety standardisation and improved regulatory service delivery within Nigeria’s maritime sector.
