Uche Cecil Izuora
The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) has charged 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) Annex VI. MARPOL Annex VI, which Nigeria has domesticated under the Merchant Shipping Act, 2007 (MSA, 2007), specifically addresses the prevention of air pollution from ships. The Director General of NIMASA, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, reaffirmed the Agency’s commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s marine environment. He stressed that full compliance with MARPOL Annex 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. NIMASA will continue to intensify monitoring and enforcement mechanisms, while also collaborating with industry stakeholders, to ensure full compliance with international environmental obligations in Nigerian waters.