Sources last checked 2026-11-05. This guide explains published requirements and is not legal advice; NIMASA’s current instructions always come first.
Show continued professional competence (one of these)
- Sea service in the relevant capacity for at least one year in the five years before you apply.
- Or an original experience certificate from your employer for equivalent work ashore for at least two years in the preceding five years (for example as a marine surveyor, maritime lecturer, superintendent, port officer, offshore rig, FPSO or FSO officer, vetting inspector, ISM auditor, Port State or Flag State inspector, or pilot).
- Or approved seagoing service in functions appropriate to your certificate for at least three months in total during the six months immediately before it expires.
- Or an approved training course, such as the competency course for your grade or one grade higher.
STCW certificates NIMASA lists for revalidation
NIMASA lists these to comply with the 2010 Manila Amendments to the STCW Convention. Some apply only where relevant to your ship or grade.
- Valid seafarer medical certificate of fitness
- Basic training (basic safety), valid or refreshed
- Advanced firefighting, valid or refreshed
- Medical care certificate
- Proficiency in survival craft and rescue boats (other than fast rescue boats)
- Ship Security Officer certificate
- GMDSS certificate
- Human element, leadership and management certificate
- ECDIS, where applicable
- ARPA / radar certificate
- High-voltage systems certificate, where applicable
Fee, photographs and the form
- Evidence of payment: NIMASA’s page states ₦10,500. Confirm the current amount with NIMASA before you pay.
- Two passport-size photographs.
- The completed CoC revalidation form, which you can download from NIMASA’s revalidation page.
Where to apply
NIMASA directs applications to the Director, Maritime Safety and Seafarers Standard Department (MSSSD), Nigeria Maritime Resource Development Centre, Kirikiri, Apapa, Lagos. Its published contacts are msssd@nimasa.gov.ng and 09076361503.
NIMASA’s page does not state how long a revalidated CoC is valid or how long processing takes; ask MSSSD when you apply.
Keep it from expiring again
Companies check expiry dates before they hire. On Gulfdeck you upload your CoC and STCW certificates once, and we email you 90, 60 and 30 days before each one expires.