The federal government has called for strict adherence to standard operating procedures in Nigeria’s diving industry to curb unethical practices and enhance safety and professionalism.
The appeal was made in Abuja when the permanent secretary, Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, Abubakar Ismaila declared open the National Diving Summit, aimed for awareness creation on diving regulations, applicable fees, and standard operating procedures in the sector.
Abubakar, who also serves as the chairman of the diving governing board, expressed concern over the reckless behaviours by some individuals and organisations within the industry.
These actions, he noted, jeopardise safety and undermine the integrity of Nigeria’s diving profession where he said ‘quacks’ compromise safety by neglecting proper dive planning, equipment monitoring, and adherence to pre- and post-dive procedures, leading to severe consequences such as decompression sickness and fatalities.
The ministry also aimed to use the summit to build collaboration with the National Association of Professional Divers (NAPROD), to expand the membership of the diving governing board to foster better regulatory monitoring and enforce strict compliance with diving codes, guidelines, and certifications.
Abubakar emphasised the importance of securing necessary approvals and permits before any diving operation and ensuring that all equipment meets safety specifications.
Highlighting the ministry’s commitment to professionalism, Abubakar warned against the use of Self-Contained Underwater Breathing Apparatus (SCUBA) for commercial diving operations within Nigerian waters, citing a recent fatal incident involving a SCUBA diver.
According to the permanent secretary, the above practice contravened established regulations and jeopardises lives and operational integrity.
He urged all stakeholders to embrace a shift towards ethical conduct, operational excellence, and environmental stewardship in diving operations.
Earlier, director, Occupational Safety and Health Department in the ministry, Adogu Lauretta stressed the need for adequate monitoring of the activities of actors in the industry as the industry continues to grow in scope and application.
“It is paramount that we develop and maintain the highest standards of safety and ensure strict compliance with all regulatory provisions governing diving activities as negligence or non-adherence to these standards can easily lead to disastrous consequences”, she said.
