NIMASA TAKES STOWAWAY AWARENESS CAMPAIGN TO LAGOS COASTAL COMMUNITIES

NIMASA TAKES STOWAWAY AWARENESS CAMPAIGN TO LAGOS COASTAL COMMUNITIES
By Prince Benson Davies

The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, NIMASA, has extended its campaign against stowaway incidents to grassroots communities as part of efforts to curb the practice and protect Nigeria’s image in the global maritime industry.

The latest sensitisation was held at Snake Island, Lagos, where the Agency met with community leaders, youths, and residents to discuss the dangers, legal consequences, and human risks associated with stowing away on vessels.

Officials said the decision to take the campaign to coastal settlements is deliberate. According to NIMASA, many stowaway cases originate from port communities where misinformation and desperation push young people to attempt dangerous voyages on ships. The Agency is now focusing on direct engagement to correct those misconceptions.

Leading the NIMASA team, the Head of ISPS, Mr. Mudi Isa, told residents that stowaway incidents have serious implications beyond the individuals involved. He explained that such cases affect Nigeria’s standing in the international maritime community, lead to vessel delays and extra costs for shipowners, and expose those involved to extreme danger, injury, or death.

Mr. Isa reaffirmed that prevention through awareness remains a core part of NIMASA’s strategy. He said the Agency will continue to work with traditional rulers, youth groups, and local stakeholders to spread accurate information about maritime safety, legal migration channels, and the penalties for illegal boarding of ships.

Residents who attended the session welcomed the initiative. Community leaders described the campaign as timely and said it would help discourage young people from taking such risky actions. Some youths at the meeting also asked questions about seafaring careers and legitimate opportunities in the maritime sector.

NIMASA said similar outreach programmes will be held in other coastal communities across Lagos and other port states in the coming weeks to ensure wider coverage.