Nigerian stevedoring operators seek roadmap for equipment upgrades and green port standards

The National Association of Stevedoring Operators NASO has committed to collaborating with the Nigerian Ports Authority NPA and the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency NIMASA to create an industry-wide equipment upgrade roadmap. This initiative aims to establish achievable goals for Nigerian stevedoring operators and secure appropriate financing, such as through the Green Climate Fund pipeline accessed by the Development Bank of Nigeria. NASO President Bolaji Sunmola made this call in Lagos at the 2026 Dockworkers’ Day, organized by the Shipping Correspondents Association of Nigeria SCAN. Sunmola emphasized that green practices should not be an unfunded mandate for operators lacking capital. He highlighted that current port equipment significantly contributes to emissions and called on the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy and NPA leadership to integrate green performance standards into Nigeria’s port modernization agenda. Sunmola stressed that modernization must address environmental performance, incorporating binding green indicators for emissions reduction, equipment standards, waste management, and cargo dwell time. He also noted that a green port must ensure worker welfare and safety. Sunmola commended SCAN for its role in chronicling and shaping discussions within the Nigerian maritime industry, particularly for choosing the theme “Green Ports: Sustainable Practices for Dockworkers.” He concluded that the most impactful green port initiative for Nigeria