In line with the International Maritime Organisation’s (IMO) 2030 deadline to cut carbon emissions across the global shipping industry, NLNG Shipping and Marine Services Limited (NSML) has reaffirmed its commitment to decarbonisation with strategic investments in cleaner fuels and advanced vessels.

The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of NSML, Abdulkadir Ahmed, revealed that the company is aligning its operations with the IMO’s green shipping agenda through a combination of fleet renewal, adoption of dual-fuel vessels and exploration of alternative, low-carbon energy sources.

Ahmed said NSML is fully committed to the transition towards green shipping as its vessels are dual-fuel and run primarily on gas, significantly reducing carbon emissions. He said the company is actively exploring carbon-neutral fuels such as hydrogen and ammonia, although challenges around infrastructure and availability remain.

He added that the company’s phased fleet renewal programme is aimed at replacing older steam-powered ships with next-generation vessels that are more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly.

Ahmed said as part of this strategy, NSML recently expanded its managed fleet with the addition of AXIOS II, a state-of-the-art LNG carrier described as one of the most technologically advanced in the world.

“This vessel is a clear demonstration of how far we have come. AXIOS II follows our acquisition of Arcturus last year and showcases our growing capability to manage some of the most sophisticated LNG vessels globally,” Ahmed stated.

Ahmed said despite its relatively modest size in the global shipping ecosystem, NSML is emerging as a key player in LNG vessel management within sub-Saharan Africa.