Clean Seas: NIMASA Orders Strict Compliance with Global Anti-Pollution Rules

NIMASA Orders Strict Compliance, The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) has ordered all vessels operating in Nigerian waters to fully comply with international rules designed to cut ship emissions, in a move aimed at protecting the nation’s marine environment from escalating pollution threats.

The directive enforces Nigeria’s obligations under the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL) Annex VI, already domesticated in the Merchant Shipping Act of 2007. Annex VI sets strict limits on harmful emissions such as sulphur oxides and nitrogen oxides pollutants known to accelerate climate change and damage human health.

NIMASA Director General, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, speaking in Lagos, stressed that the agency would not compromise on environmental standards as Nigeria aligns with international maritime best practices.

NIMASA Orders Strict Compliance

“Full compliance with MARPOL Annex VI is not negotiable,” Mobereola declared. “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 continue to encourage shipping businesses in Nigeria, international standards must not be compromised.”

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The move places Nigeria among nations actively working to curb maritime emissions at a time when global shipping accounts for nearly 3% of greenhouse gas emissions worldwide. For Africa’s largest economy, the enforcement signals a balance between boosting maritime trade and protecting marine ecosystems critical to fishing, coastal livelihoods, and long-term sustainability.