Joyce Mmereole Okoli
The Director-General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dr. Dayo Mobereola, has reiterated the Agency’s commitment to driving maritime decarbonisation, advancing green shipping initiatives and strengthening marine environmental protection as part of Nigeria’s contribution to global efforts towards a sustainable maritime future.
Dr. Mobereola gave the assurance during a strategic meeting with the Chief Executive Officer of Natural Eco Capital Limited, Dr. Eugene Itua, where both parties explored collaborative initiatives aimed at accelerating the country’s transition to a cleaner, greener and more environmentally sustainable maritime industry.
A major highlight of the engagement was the presentation of the Nigerian Green Shipping Excellence Programme (NGSEP) and the Green Maritime Recognition Scheme (GMRS) by Dr. Itua. He explained that the initiatives are designed to promote low-carbon shipping, encourage the adoption of environmentally friendly technologies, attract climate finance and position Nigeria as a leading hub for sustainable maritime practices in Africa.
Speaking during the meeting, Dr. Mobereola welcomed the proposals, describing strategic partnerships between government and the private sector as critical to achieving Nigeria’s environmental sustainability goals.
According to him, innovative and collaborative solutions remain indispensable in addressing the challenges of climate change, protecting the marine ecosystem and improving the competitiveness of Nigeria’s maritime industry in an increasingly environmentally conscious global shipping landscape.
He reaffirmed NIMASA’s readiness to support initiatives that align with the Federal Government’s blue economy agenda and international climate commitments, noting that sustainable shipping is now central to the future of global maritime trade.
The Nigerian Green Shipping Excellence Programme and the Green Maritime Recognition Scheme are expected to support the country’s transition to a low-carbon maritime sector, enhance environmental stewardship and contribute significantly to the sustainable growth of Nigeria’s marine and blue economy.