Nimasa raises alarm over increase in marine waste

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NIMASA Raises Alarm Over Increase in Marine Waste

The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) has raised the alarm over the alarming increase in marine waste in Nigerian waters. The agency has called on all stakeholders to take immediate action to address the issue, which it says poses a significant threat to the country's marine environment and economy.

According to NIMASA, the increase in marine waste is largely due to the lack of proper waste management infrastructure and the failure of shipowners and operators to comply with international regulations on waste disposal.

"We are deeply concerned about the growing problem of marine waste in our waters," said Dr. Dakuku Peterside, Director-General of NIMASA. "The impact of this waste on our marine environment and economy is significant, and we must take immediate action to address it."

NIMASA has identified several sources of marine waste, including plastic bags, bottles, and other non-biodegradable materials, as well as oil spills and other hazardous substances. The agency says that these substances are not only harming marine life, but also posing a threat to human health and the economy.

To address the issue, NIMASA has launched a campaign to raise awareness about the importance of proper waste management and to encourage shipowners and operators to comply with international regulations on waste disposal. The agency is also working with other stakeholders, including the Nigerian Navy and the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA), to develop a comprehensive plan to address the problem of marine waste.

"We are committed to protecting our marine environment and economy, and we will not tolerate any form of pollution or waste disposal that threatens these values," said Dr. Peterside.

The agency is also urging the public to play a role in addressing the issue of marine waste by reducing their use of single-use plastics and other non-biodegradable materials, and by properly disposing of waste in designated areas.

"We all have a role to play in protecting our marine environment, and we must work together to address this critical issue," said Dr. Peterside.

NIMASA is also working with international organizations, such as the International Maritime Organization (IMO), to develop global standards for waste management and to share best practices in addressing the issue of marine waste.

"We are committed to working with our international partners to address the global problem of marine waste, and we believe that by working together, we can make a significant impact," said Dr. Peterside.

In conclusion, NIMASA is urging all stakeholders to take immediate action to address the issue of marine waste in Nigerian waters. The agency is committed to protecting the country's marine environment and economy, and it will continue to work with other stakeholders to develop a comprehensive plan to address this critical issue.