By Seun Ibiyemi
The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing maritime decarbonisation, promoting green shipping practices, and strengthening marine environmental protection as part of efforts to build a sustainable maritime industry in line with global environmental standards.
The Director General of NIMASA, Dr. Dayo 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 initiatives aimed at accelerating Nigeria’s transition to a cleaner and more environmentally sustainable maritime sector.

L- R : CEO, Natural Eco Capital Limited, Dr. Eugene Itua, Director, Planning Research and Data Mgt. Services Dept., Mrs Aishatu Jidda, DG, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, Director, Marine Environment Mgt Dept., Dr. Oma Ofodile, and Executive Director, Operations, Engr. Fatai Adeyemi, all of NIMASA.
At the meeting, Itua presented the Nigerian Green Shipping Excellence Programme (NGSEP) and the Green Maritime Recognition Scheme (GMRS), describing them as key initiatives designed to promote maritime decarbonisation, encourage the adoption of cleaner technologies, attract climate investments, and position Nigeria as a regional hub for sustainable shipping.
Responding, Mobereola commended the proposed programmes, stressing that collaboration between the public and private sectors remains critical to achieving Nigeria’s environmental sustainability goals.
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He noted that innovative and practical partnerships would play a significant role in tackling climate change, protecting the marine environment, and enhancing the competitiveness of Nigeria’s maritime industry.

The Director-General of NIMASA, Dr. Dayo Mobereola (Right) in a handshake with CEO, Natural Eco Capital Limited, Dr. Eugene Itua.
According to the NIMASA Director General, the Agency remains committed to supporting initiatives that align with international best practices while driving the sustainable development of Nigeria’s maritime sector and blue economy.
The proposed NGSEP and GMRS initiatives are expected to facilitate Nigeria’s transition to a low-carbon maritime sector, strengthen environmental governance, and contribute to the long-term growth and resilience of the nation’s marine and blue economy.
