The marine and blue economy is one of Nigeria’s most strategic sectors, covering shipping, offshore logistics, port operations, pollution control, and the fast-growing Ship-to-Ship (STS) services. To operate legally and competitively, companies must obtain a range of licenses and certifications from multiple regulators. These requirements cut across corporate structuring, maritime safety, environmental compliance, and oil and gas regulation.
⚠️ Important Note: Statutory government fees listed in this guide are official charges published by the respective regulators. Separate professional fees will apply at each stage of the process for advisory, documentation, and liaison services. All statutory fees are subject to change by government authorities.
This article provides a comprehensive step-by-step guide on how to obtain the necessary permits, licenses, and certifications to operate in the sector.
1. Corporate Readiness (Before Regulatory Engagement)
Before approaching regulators, a company must demonstrate corporate and tax compliance:
- Incorporation with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) as a company limited by shares.
- Objects Clause covering maritime, shipping, logistics, and STS operations.
- Tax Identification Number (TIN) with up-to-date compliance from the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS).
- Registration on regulators’ portals, including NIMASA, NPA, NUPRC, and NCDMB.
This corporate readiness stage forms the foundation for subsequent license applications.
2. Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA)
NIMASA is Nigeria’s lead maritime safety regulator. It issues approvals for operations, environmental protection, labour standards, and international safety compliance.
Key Licenses and Certifications
- STS Operational License
- Submit application via the NIMASA portal or in person.
- Requirements: operational manual, risk assessment, safety plan, past operational records, and vessel documents.
- Fee: ₦850,000 (for vessels 150GT & above).
- Validity: 5 years.
- STS Safety Manual Approval
- Companies must prepare a manual compliant with ISGOTT (International Safety Guide for Oil Tankers and Terminals) and OCIMF (Oil Companies International Marine Forum).
- SOPEP / SMPEP Approval
- Shipboard Oil Pollution Emergency Plan (SOPEP) and Shipboard Marine Pollution Emergency Plan (SMPEP) must be prepared by certified consultants.
- Approvals are vessel-specific.
- Fees:
Validity: 5 years.
- ISM Code Compliance
- Implementation of the International Safety Management (ISM) Code is mandatory.
- Vessels must undergo audits by a Recognized Organization (RO) appointed by NIMASA.
- Maritime Labour Certificate (MLC)
- Application through NIMASA’s Labour Services Department.
- Required for all crewed vessels.
- Fees:
- Dock labour employer (stevedoring company): ₦250,000
- Dockworkers/stevedores: ₦50,000
- Stevedoring license: ₦500,000
📍 NIMASA Website | 🏢 Headquarters: Burma Road, Apapa, Lagos.
3. Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC)
Formerly DPR, NUPRC regulates oil and gas logistics, bunkering, and marine services linked to offshore petroleum operations.
- Marine Logistics Permit / Oil and Gas Service Permit
- Application online via the NUPRC ePermit Portal.
- Required documents: CAC papers, tax clearance, marine insurance, HSE policies, and equipment list.
Fees:
- General: ₦5,500
- Major: ₦27,500
Categorised: ₦257,500
📍 NUPRC Website | ePermit Portal
4. Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA)
NPA controls port access and operational licenses for activities within Lagos, Onne, Warri, and Calabar ports.
- NPA Operational License
- Submit application to the Port Manager.
- Documents: vessel particulars, corporate papers, insurance, and operations scope.
Official Cost Breakdown
| Category | Registration Fee | Renewal Fee |
| Shipping Company/Agent | ₦200,000 | ₦100,000 |
| Clearing & Forwarding Agent | ₦25,000 | ₦5,000 |
| Chandlers | ₦200,000 | – |
| Service Boat Operator | ₦200,000 | – |
| Third-Party Towage | $20,000 | $20,000 |
| Private Jetty (per metre, annual) | ₦1,250 | ₦1,250 |
📍 NPA Website | 🏢 Headquarters: Marina, Lagos.
5. Federal Ministry of Environment
Environmental compliance is central to maritime operations, especially for pollution control and waste management.
- Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)
- Conducted by accredited consultants who prepare a scoping report.
- Submit to the Ministry for review.
- Waste Management Plan (WMP) Approval
- Companies must file disposal methods, contractor details, and safeguards.
- Fee: ₦1,000,000
- Validity: 5 years.
EIA Official Fee Schedule
- Registration: ₦50,000
- Site Verification: ₦500,000
- Scoping Workshop: ₦500,000
- Data Gathering Witnessing: ₦250,000
- Data Analysis Witnessing: ₦250,000
- In-House Technical Review: ₦500,000 – ₦1,500,000
- Panel Review: ₦1,000,000 – ₦10,000,000
- Certification: ₦100,000
6. Dun & Bradstreet (D-U-N-S Number)
A global identifier used for due diligence and oil major prequalification.
- Free application via D&B or Nigerian agents such as Intertek, DNV, or select banks.
7. Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB)
Compliance with Nigeria’s local content laws is mandatory for oil and gas service providers.
- Register on the NOGIC JQS Portal.
- Upload corporate documents, marine assets, workforce plans, and technical capabilities.
8. Class Societies / Recognized Organizations (ROs)
For international classification and certification, companies must engage with class societies, including:
- DNV
- Bureau Veritas
- Lloyd’s Register
- ABS (American Bureau of Shipping)
These organizations provide vessel classification, ISM/ISPS audits, and certification for STS mooring and equipment.
9. Other Recommended Approvals
- Marine Insurance (P&I, Hull & Machinery): obtainable from Nigerian insurers such as AIICO, Custodian, or Leadway.
- NAVCOM Radio Certificate: issued by NIMASA Safety Directorate or through class society audits.
Conclusion
Operating in Nigeria’s marine and blue economy sector requires multi-layered compliance. From corporate incorporation and tax clearance to NIMASA’s safety codes, NUPRC’s oil and gas permits, NPA’s port licenses, and environmental approvals, each stage demands thorough documentation and regulatory engagement.
⚠️ Please note: while statutory government fees are set out above, professional advisory fees will apply for legal, regulatory, and compliance support. All fees are subject to change by the respective authorities.
With proper planning and expert guidance, companies can navigate the licensing process effectively and position themselves to thrive in one of Africa’s most dynamic maritime markets.
Written by Temitope Omololu