NIMASA Orders Ships in Nigerian Waters to Step Up Pollution Control

The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) has directed all vessels operating within Nigerian waters to comply fully with international rules limiting air pollution from ships.

The order, issued through a Marine Notice, enforces the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL) Annex VI, which Nigeria domesticated under the Merchant Shipping Act of 2007. The regulation sets strict limits on emissions of sulphur oxides (SOx), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and other harmful substances from ships.

NIMASA’s Director General, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, said the directive underscores Nigeria’s commitment to international maritime standards. He stressed that compliance with the convention was “non-negotiable” for shipowners and operators using the country’s waters.

“We encourage shipping businesses in Nigeria, but we remain committed to ensuring that international standards are not compromised,” Mobereola said.

The agency explained that enforcement would include closer monitoring of vessels, inspections, and collaboration with industry stakeholders to ensure strict adherence to the rules. Failure to comply, it warned, could attract sanctions.

The move aligns Nigeria with global efforts to reduce maritime-related air pollution and protect coastal environments. It also supports the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) push for cleaner seas, including the IMO 2020 sulphur cap that limits sulphur content in marine fuel to 0.5 percent.

Industry observers say the measure will not only protect the marine ecosystem but also improve air quality for communities along Nigeria’s coastline.

By Oshuniran Sheriff Ola