The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) is the backbone of maritime safety, shipping development, and ocean governance in Nigeria. Through various capacity-building programs, cadetship schemes, and professional training, NIMASA prepares individuals to take on strategic roles in Nigeria’s maritime sector. Whether you're a maritime cadet, officer trainee, or support personnel, understanding the training structure, duration, and allowances in 2025 is essential.
NIMASA Training Programs Overview
NIMASA conducts multiple local and international training schemes, including:
- Seafarers training
- NSDP (Nigerian Seafarers Development Programme)
- Safety and compliance certification (e.g., STCW courses)
- Capacity-building workshops and marine engineering courses
These trainings are conducted at recognized institutions such as the Maritime Academy of Nigeria (MAN), Oron, as well as foreign academies in the Philippines, India, UK, and Greece.
Training Duration in 2025
The duration of training varies based on the program:
|
Program |
Estimated Duration |
|
Basic Seafarer Training |
3 – 6 months |
|
Nigerian Seafarers Development (NSDP) |
2 – 4 years (overseas) |
|
Maritime Safety & STCW Courses |
1 week – 3 months |
|
Marine Engineering Cadetship |
12 – 24 months |
|
Specialized Compliance Training |
2 weeks – 2 months |
NIMASA Training Allowance Structure (2025)
Trainees participating in NIMASA-sponsored programs, especially under the NSDP or cadetship schemes, are provided with monthly allowances or stipends to cover living expenses, logistics, and training support.
Estimated Monthly Allowance:
|
Category |
Allowance (₦) |
|
NSDP Cadets (Overseas) |
₦150,000 – ₦300,000 |
|
Local Cadets (MAN, Oron) |
₦50,000 – ₦100,000 |
|
STCW/Short Course Participants |
₦30,000 – ₦70,000 |
|
Interns/Technical Trainees |
₦20,000 – ₦40,000 |
Note: Amounts vary by program type, sponsorship status, location (local/abroad), and budget approvals.
Additional Benefits During Training
NIMASA trainees often receive the following in addition to their allowances:
- Accommodation (especially for overseas cadets)
- Travel and visa support
- Health insurance (for some international trainees)
- Training materials and protective gear
- Certification exam sponsorships
FAQs
Q1: Does NIMASA sponsor training abroad?
A1: Yes, under the Nigerian Seafarers Development Programme (NSDP), NIMASA sponsors cadets to foreign maritime academies.
Q2: Do all trainees receive allowances?
A2: Most NIMASA-sponsored trainees receive stipends. Self-sponsored trainees may not qualify unless otherwise stated.
Q3: How can I apply for NIMASA training?
A3: Applications are usually announced on the NIMASA official website and in national newspapers when programs open.
Q4: Is the NSDP still active in 2025?
A4: Yes. NSDP continues to operate in 2025 with a new cohort selected annually based on availability and funding.
Conclusion
NIMASA remains a key driver of Nigeria’s maritime talent development. With structured training durations and competitive allowances in 2025, the agency ensures that both local and international cadets receive the support they need to thrive. Whether you’re looking to become a certified seafarer, marine engineer, or maritime safety expert, NIMASA’s programs provide the training, exposure, and incentives needed to succeed.
