The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has approved the appointment of Barr. Adenike Iyelolu as the new Registrar of Ships.

Her four-year tenure took effect immediately, following a recommendation by the Director General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dr. Dayo Mobereola.

The appointment marks a major administrative step for the Nigerian Ship Registry, one of the country’s key maritime regulatory institutions.

Under the NIMASA Act 2007, the Registrar of Ships reports directly to the Director General for effective oversight of vessel documentation and compliance.

The Act states, “The Registrar of Ships shall, with the approval of the Minister, be appointed by the Director General from among the staff of the Agency.”

Iyelolu, currently a Deputy Director at NIMASA, brings more than 25 years of post-call experience in maritime law, arbitration, procurement, contract administration, corporate governance, and institutional leadership.

She takes over from Barr. Tajudeen Giwa, who retired after what the Agency described as “years of commendable service.”

NIMASA’s spokesperson, Osagie Edward, confirmed the development, stressing that the appointment reflects the Ministry’s commitment to strengthening maritime administration.

“Barr. Iyelolu’s appointment comes following the retirement of the former Registrar of Ships, Barr. Tajudeen Giwa, after years of commendable service,” he said.

The Agency expects the new Registrar to drive reforms that will enhance the competitiveness and credibility of the Nigerian Ship Registry.