Nigerian Vessel Association Launches Nationwide Marine Craft Verification

The Tugboat, Fuel Barges, and Seagoing Vessel Association of Nigeria (TUBAVS) announced a nationwide directive for the immediate registration, verification, and stricter control of all marine vessels and craft operating within Nigerian waters and inland waterways. The initiative seeks to assist the government in combating sea piracy and illegal oil bunkering, which the association states threaten national security, government revenue, and the marine environment.

Scheduled to run from August 15 to November 30, 2026, the exercise requires owners of tankers, barges, tugboats, and vessels engaged in fuel transport or ship-to-ship operations to complete verification within 90 days. Owners must provide proof of ownership, tonnage certificates, and valid licenses from the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency and the National Inland Waterways Authority. The association based the proposal on the provisions of the Suppression of Piracy and Other Maritime Offences Act, 2019.

Every verified vessel will be assigned a Unique Vessel Identification Number (UVIN), which must be displayed on both the bow and stern. Legal Adviser Tonye Wilson detailed the registration requirements and emphasized the necessity of the measures to address the rising incidents of illegal bunkering.