NIMASA Pledges Increased Monitoring, Enforcement On Vessels Over Marine Pollution

The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) has vowed to intensify monitoring and enforcement mechanisms to ensure indigenous and foreign shipping companies comply fully with international environmental obligations in Nigerian waters.

Thus was disclosed by the director-general of the Agency, Dr Dayo Mobereola, while charging all ships operating within Nigerian waters to ensure strict compliance with the provisions of the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL) Annexe VI.

LEADERSHIP reports that MARPOL Annexe VI, which Nigeria has domesticated under the Merchant Shipping Act, 2007 (MSA, 2007), specifically addresses the prevention of air pollution from ships.

Mobereola, however, reaffirmed the Agency’s commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s marine environment.

He stressed that full compliance with MARPOL Annexe VI is non-negotiable for all vessels, as Nigeria continues to align its maritime operations with global best practices in safety, security, and environmental protection.

“In line with our statutory mandate under the NIMASA Act 2007 and the Merchant Shipping Act 2007, we have issued a Marine Notice to guide shipowners, charterers, and shipping companies on their obligations. While we encourage shipping businesses in Nigeria, we remain committed to ensuring that international standards are not compromised,” Dr. Mobereola stated.