Africa’s maritime sector positioned for green shipping — Oyetola
…We must prioritise sustainable, responsible maritime practices — DG NIMASA
By Seun Ibiyemi
Nigeria’s Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has urged maritime stakeholders across Africa to harness the continent’s renewable energy potential and position themselves as global leaders in green shipping.
The Minister made this statement at the inaugural Africa Strategic Summit on Shipping Decarbonisation, held on Monday at the Congress Hall, Transcorp Hilton, Abuja.
He stressed that, as the International Maritime Organization (IMO) progresses with its Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emissions Reduction Strategy, Africa must take a proactive role to ensure its interests are protected.
Similarly, Dr Dayo Mobereola, Director General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), stressed the necessity for Africa to prioritise sustainable and responsible maritime operations in alignment with international regulations as the sector evolves.
Oyetola remarked, “With over 90 per cent of global trade dependent on maritime transport, cutting GHG emissions from shipping is not merely an environmental obligation but an economic necessity. Africa must assert its presence in policy discussions and safeguard its economic and developmental interests.
“Shipping decarbonisation extends beyond just the maritime industry—it affects multiple sectors and livelihoods. The transition towards a greener shipping industry must be pursued in a fair and inclusive manner, ensuring that no African nation is marginalised.
“Africa’s maritime sector has a unique opportunity to capitalise on its strategic geographical location, renewable energy resources, and expanding port infrastructure to establish itself as a global leader in sustainable shipping. Achieving this, however, demands a unified approach from all stakeholders to align investments with long-term sustainability and economic advancement.”
In his keynote address, Dr Dayo Mobereola, Director General of NIMASA, stated, “The shipping sector is responsible for approximately 3 per cent of global GHG emissions, which significantly contribute to climate change. The environmental implications of these emissions have created an urgent need for action, and Africa must not be left behind in the global efforts towards shipping decarbonisation.”
He explained that the two-day summit focuses on Africa’s cooperation regarding the IMO’s GHG strategy and the package of mid-term measures, ensuring that the continent undergoes a just and fair transition while strengthening its technical capacity for climate action.
Mobereola added, “The choices we make today will shape the future of Africa’s maritime industry and define our role in global climate action. This summit presents an invaluable opportunity to align our regional strategies with international sustainability goals while addressing Africa’s distinct challenges and prospects.”
The summit featured insightful presentations, including: “IMO’s Progress in GHG Reduction Strategy” by Dr Harry Conway, Chairman of the IMO’s Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC) and Alternate Permanent Representative of Liberia to the IMO.
“The Role of Africa’s Maritime Administrations in Advancing Shipping Decarbonisation” by Mr John Oming’o, President of the Association of African Maritime Administrations.
Mr Oming’o outlined the numerous benefits of shipping decarbonisation, including mitigating global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius, job creation in renewable energy, shipbuilding, and research and development.
He also highlighted the improvements in air quality around ports and coastal cities, modernisation of port facilities for cleaner logistics, and the development of green fuel production hubs.
Several distinguished officials delivered goodwill messages advocating for collaboration to establish a greener maritime environment in Nigeria and across Africa. These included: Chief Geoffrey Nnaji, Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology; Dr Jumoke Oduwole, Minister of Industry, Trade, and Investment; Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, Chief of Naval Staff.
They commended the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy and NIMASA for their instrumental roles in shaping Africa’s maritime landscape. They also reaffirmed the Nigerian Navy’s commitment to supporting maritime decarbonisation efforts, particularly in the Nigerian shipping and maritime industry.
