FG advocates Africa-led strategy to cut carbon emissions in shipping industry

As the International Maritime Organization (IMO) moves to finalize its revised emissions reduction strategy, the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Gboyega Oyetola, has urged African nations to take an active role in shaping global shipping decarbonisation policies.

He emphasised the need for a just and equitable transition that safeguards the continent’s economic interests.

The Minister, while speaking at the maiden African Strategic Summit on Shipping Decarbonization on Monday in Abuja, highlighted the urgency of addressing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in the maritime industry, particularly as:

“Africa contributes less than 2% to the global fleet, yet our economies are highly dependent on maritime trade,” the Minister stated. “As we navigate this energy transition, it is crucial that Africa’s interests are safeguarded to prevent disproportionate economic impacts, especially from rising transport costs.”

The minister emphasised Africa’s strategic geographic position and renewable energy potential, calling for investments in green shipping solutions such as renewable energy-powered ports, green shipping corridors, workforce development, and increased African ship ownership.

Stressing the importance of partnerships, the Minister called for stronger collaboration among African states and with global stakeholders to advocate for policies that support developing economies.

“Decarbonization is not a journey any nation can undertake alone,” the Minister said. “With over 40 African member states at the IMO, we have the strength to influence the debate and ensure Africa’s voice is heard in policy discussions.”

He pointed to the upcoming IMO Intersessional Working Group on Greenhouse Gas Emissions (ISWG-GHG-19) and the Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC-GHG-83) as key opportunities for Africa to present a unified position.

The Minister also underscored the need to strengthen Africa’s technical capacity, citing initiatives such as the Lead Afrocentric (LEAP) Project and the newly proposed Professional Technical Network and Advisory (PATNA) as essential for evidence-based policymaking.

“Africa must move beyond being an observer and become an active participant in shaping global maritime decarbonization policies,” the minister asserted.

The two-day summit is expected to produce key recommendations for Africa’s role in the global shift toward zero-emission shipping, with stakeholders from government, industry, and academia contributing to the discussions.

In his welcome address, the Director General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dr. Dayo Mobereola, explained that shipping decarbonization refers to the efforts to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from the shipping industry, which is a significant contributor to global emissions.

“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—and Africa must not be left behind,” he stated.

Mobereola further explained that decarbonization supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 13 (Climate Action).

“This 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.”

On his part, the Liberian Representative to IMO, Dr. Harry Conway, said, “You cannot trade without using a vessel. Eighty per cent of global trade is by sea, and Africa is 90% dependent on seaborne trade,” urging African countries to be part of the decision-making body at the IMO in order to have their needs heard.