NIMASA Launches Automated Portal for Seafarers’ Documentation

The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) has unveiled the Seafarer Discharge Book Management Portal, a fully digital platform designed to streamline the application, verification, processing, and issuance of Seafarers’ Discharge Books.

The launch, held in Lagos during the 2026 Day of the Seafarer celebration themed “Carrying the World Trade. Carrying the Risk,” underscores NIMASA’s commitment to service efficiency, maritime safety, and the global competitiveness of Nigerian seafarers.

Key Features of the Portal
– NIN Verification: Integrated with the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) for secure authentication.
– Digital Identity Capture: Email verification via OTP and live facial recognition.
– Document Uploads: Mandatory credentials Certificate are submitted online.
– Transparent Review: Applications are digitally vetted by the Shipping Master, with clear feedback on corrections.
– Seamless Payment: Integrated online payment system generates invoices and assigns unique serial numbers.

Benefits
– Reduced processing time and minimal manual intervention.
– Enhanced security, traceability, and authenticity of documentation.
– Improved transparency and efficiency in certification.

Speaking at the launch, NIMASA Director General Dr. Dayo Mobereola described the initiative as a milestone in the Agency’s digital transformation agenda:

“The Seafarer Discharge Book Management Portal eliminates unnecessary bottlenecks, strengthens the integrity of our certification process, and reinforces NIMASA’s commitment to the welfare and global competitiveness of Nigerian seafarers.”

He emphasized that technology remains central to building a modern maritime administration that meets international standards.