Maritime NIMASA backs green shipping to boost maritime competitiveness

The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) has reaffirmed its commitment to accelerating green shipping and maritime decarbonisation as part of broader efforts to position Nigeria as a competitive player in the global transition towards low-carbon shipping and a sustainable blue economy.

The renewed commitment comes amid growing international pressure on the shipping industry to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, adopt cleaner technologies and align with global climate targets set by the International Maritime Organisation (IMO).

Director-General of NIMASA, Dr Dayo Mobereola, committed during a strategic meeting with the Chief Executive Officer of Natural Eco Capital Limited, Dr Eugene Itua, where both parties explored initiatives designed to fast-track Nigeria’s transition to environmentally sustainable maritime operations.

Mobereola said stronger collaboration between government institutions, private sector operators and other industry stakeholders would be critical to achieving Nigeria’s environmental sustainability objectives while enhancing the competitiveness of the country’s maritime sector.

He noted that sustainable shipping has become a key component of global maritime development, making it imperative for Nigeria to adopt policies and technologies that reduce carbon emissions and improve environmental performance.

During the meeting, Itua presented the Nigerian Green Shipping Excellence Programme (NGSEP) and the Green Maritime Recognition Scheme (GMRS), describing both initiatives as practical frameworks for driving maritime decarbonisation, encouraging investment in clean technologies and attracting climate finance into Nigeria’s maritime industry.

According to him, the programmes are also designed to position Nigeria as a regional leader in sustainable shipping by promoting environmentally responsible maritime operations and recognising industry players that adopt green shipping practices.

Mobereola welcomed the proposals, describing them as innovative initiatives capable of supporting international efforts to reduce emissions from global shipping while strengthening environmental protection across Nigeria’s maritime domain.

He stressed that tackling climate change within the maritime industry requires sustained investment in cleaner technologies, stronger partnerships and long-term policy support.

The NIMASA chief reiterated that the agency remains committed to implementing programmes that promote green shipping, protect the marine environment and support the sustainable development of Nigeria’s blue economy.

He added that partnerships with private sector organisations would be instrumental in delivering practical solutions capable of accelerating the country’s transition to cleaner shipping operations while improving the overall competitiveness of Nigeria’s maritime industry.

The proposed initiatives are expected to support Nigeria’s long-term decarbonisation agenda, attract climate-related investments into the maritime sector and contribute to sustainable economic growth through the development of a resilient and environmentally responsible blue economy.