PHOTO NEWS: NIMASA Takes Anti-Stowaway Campaign to Grassroots Communities

The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) has intensified efforts to curb stowaway incidents by taking its public awareness campaign to grassroots communities, with a recent outreach held at Snake Island in Lagos.

The sensitisation programme brought together community leaders, youths and residents to educate them on the dangers, legal implications and broader consequences of attempting to stow away on vessels.

Residents who participated in the exercise commended the agency for the initiative, describing the campaign as timely, informative and impactful. They noted that the awareness programme would help discourage young people from engaging in the dangerous practice.

Leading NIMASA's delegation, the Head of the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code Unit, Mr. Mudi Isa, said stowaway incidents not only endanger lives but also tarnish Nigeria's image within the global maritime community.

He reaffirmed the agency's commitment to preventing stowaway cases through sustained public enlightenment and community engagement, stressing that collaboration with host communities remains critical to addressing the challenge at its source.

The campaign forms part of NIMASA's broader maritime security and safety initiatives aimed at protecting lives, safeguarding Nigeria's maritime reputation, and promoting a secure environment for shipping activities across the country's waterways.