China Classification Society Secures NIMASA Approval to Begin Operations in Nigeria
China Classification Society Secures NIMASA Approval to Begin Operations in Nigeria
The China Classification Society (CCS) has received approval from the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) to commence classification and survey of vessels registered in Nigeria and operating within its territorial waters.
A CCS delegation led by Engr. Zhang Qingyue, Managing Director for Africa, and Engr. Wabio, Managing Director for West Africa, disclosed this during a courtesy visit to the Nigerian Association of Master Mariners (NAMM) in Apapa. They were received by NAMM President, Capt. Tajudeen Alao, and other executives.
Strengthening Nigeria’s Maritime Sector
CCS emphasized that the approval positions the organization to invest in Nigeria and contribute to the growth of the country’s maritime and blue economy. Founded in 1956 and headquartered in Beijing, CCS is a state-owned enterprise under China’s Ministry of Transport and the only professional body authorized in China to provide classification services. It is also a full member of the International Association of Classification Societies (IACS).
Scope of Services
According to Engr. Qingyue, CCS provides:
– Ship surveying and classification
– Technical rules and standards for shipbuilding, offshore structures, and marine products
– Statutory surveys authorized by more than 60 flag states, ensuring compliance with international maritime regulations
– Industrial verification services including testing, certification, and quality supervision in energy, manufacturing, and container sectors
Engr. Wabio explained that CCS’s role begins at the ship design stage, ensuring that materials and equipment used in construction are properly inspected and certified.
Global Presence
CCS operates a worldwide network of over 120 offices across major shipping regions. It is authorized by the Chinese government to perform statutory surveys for ships and offshore installations flying the Chinese flag, and provides classification services using internationally recognized technical codes and standards.
Nigeria–China Maritime Partnership
Responding to the CCS delegation, Capt. Alao noted that CCS has joined 10 other classification societies already authorized by NIMASA to carry out statutory surveys and certification of Nigerian-flagged vessels. He added that the partnership will expand China’s maritime and blue economy sector, while strengthening safety and compliance standards.
