From Idu Jude, Abuja
The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced plans to intensify efforts to ensure that the African continent makes meaningful contributions as the International Maritime Organization (IMO) prepares to introduce new regulations aimed at enhancing the decarbonization of the shipping industry.
The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, made this remark on Monday during a two-day International Strategic Summit on the Decarbonization of the Shipping Industry held in Abuja.
The minister stated that, if well implemented, the programme will propel Africa towards a sustainable and prosperous blue economy.
“The urgency of decarbonizing the global shipping industry is at a pivotal juncture as the International Maritime Organization (IMO) is set to finalize and adopt the policy framework on the Revised Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emissions Reduction Strategy and the Basket of Midterm Measures by this autumn,” Oyetola said.
“The progression of negotiations and research work done so far suggests that Africa, along with most developing countries, will be significantly impacted due to the increase in transport costs resulting from the energy transition to near-zero and zero-emission shipping. You may wish to know that our contribution to the global fleet is below 2%, and as such, our dependency on imports from other parts of the world makes this transition an important debate we must not shy away from. Trade is critical to our place in the world, and with over 90% of global trade facilitated by maritime transport, reducing GHG emissions from shipping is not just an environmental necessity but an economic imperative.”
Oyetola further advised that as the IMO advances its regulatory framework on decarbonization, Africa must ensure its voice is heard and its interests safeguarded in shaping policies that impact economies and livelihoods.
“Nigeria occupies a coastal continent with 38 coastal nations. We stand a chance to explore opportunities that this energy transition offers our region by engaging the Global North to partner with Africa to utilize the need to develop our ports as a launch pad for catalyzing the industrialization of Africa. We must carefully develop meaningful discussions and partnerships that do not set us back to extractive partnerships but adopt a respectful approach to building our region and strengthening our position in the world. This will not come easy, and that is the essence of this summit. This event is one of many intended to unify our efforts toward a greater Africa. Africa’s maritime sector is uniquely positioned to leverage its strategic geographic advantage, renewable energy potential, and growing port infrastructure to become a global leader in green shipping,” he added.
However, the minister noted that this requires a concerted effort from all stakeholders—public and private sector players and development partners—to align investments with sustainability and economic growth.
“Decarbonizing the shipping industry must be pursued in a manner that is just and equitable, ensuring that no African nation is left behind. Shipping decarbonization also goes beyond ships and touches various sectors such as transport, environment, and climate,” he stressed.
Meanwhile, the Director General and CEO of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dr. Dayo Mobereola, in his welcome address, called on all African countries to prioritize the implementation of Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 13 to ensure that shipping decarbonization takes full effect by the year 2050.
He stated that this has become necessary as the shipping industry accounts for approximately 3% of global GHG emissions, contributing to climate change. “The environmental concerns arising from these emissions have created a sense of urgency, driving the world to focus on shipping decarbonization, which Africa must not be left behind. The decarbonization programme supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 13 (Climate Action).”
Mobereola noted that the African Strategy Summit has brought together experts, regulators, policymakers, industry leaders, and stakeholders to discuss best practices, share knowledge, and exchange experiences that will ensure a just and equitable shipping decarbonization in Africa by promoting sustainable maritime development.
“During this summit, we will engage in constructive dialogue and explore opportunities for collaboration and cooperation. Our discussions will focus on:
The IMO GHG Reduction Strategy and the Basket of Midterm Measures: the journey so far and the future of Africa’s maritime industry
A just and equitable transition for Africa
Political and strategic negotiating skills, driving strategic negotiation with empirical data
Africa’s technical capacity in climate action
Africa’s roadmap to the Intersessional Working Group (ISWG19), MEPC 83, and beyond,” he said.
“We are honored by the presence of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and IMO-MEPC Chairperson, Dr. Harry Conway. The IMO has been working diligently to achieve a globally harmonized decarbonized shipping industry, ensuring no one is left behind in the energy transition—particularly developing countries, least developed countries, and small island developing states,” Mobereola added.
In his goodwill message, the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, acknowledged that the decarbonization of the shipping industry will enhance the reduction of environmental pollution. He informed the summit that the Nigerian Navy is currently transforming all its vessels from fossil fuel users to Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) in compliance with green energy initiatives.
Also speaking, Dr. Dola Oluteye, the Principal Investigator of the LEAP Project, said that Africa should not just be a participating continent but must form a strong voice to advocate for African needs at the IMO policy implementation stage.
“Africa must prioritize sustainable and responsible maritime practices as the continent grows and develops. The decisions we make today will shape the future of our maritime industry and our contribution to global climate goals. This summit provides a unique opportunity to align our regional strategies with international frameworks while addressing Africa’s challenges and opportunities,” she said.
Dr. Harry Conway, an IMO continental representative, stated that the target is to ensure that all vessels operating worldwide are decarbonized by 2050. He added that the summit offers Africa the opportunity to formulate its position toward policy formulations.
“The strength of Africa in the global shipping business is an added advantage that must not be overlooked while observer nations make policies,” Conway emphasized.
The two-day summit is expected to help formulate Africa’s stance ahead of the IMO annual conference in London next month.