Africa Maritime Stakeholders Unite for Sustainable Shipping. As Oyetola, Mebereola emphasize decabornization
Oru Leonard
In a bid to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the shipping industry, experts, regulators, policymakers, industry leaders, and stakeholders converged in Abuja on Monday, March 17, 2025. The summit aimed to discuss best practices, share knowledge, and exchange experiences to achieve equitable shipping decarbonization in Africa.
Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, emphasized the importance of decarbonizing the shipping industry, noting its impact on various sectors, including transport, environment, climate change, trade, and investment. He advocated for upholding the principle of Common but Differentiated Responsibilities during this transition.
Speaking earlier, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, Director General/CEO of NIMASA, emphasized the urgency of addressing the environmental concerns arising from the shipping industry’s 3% contribution to global GHG emissions. He highlighted the International Maritime Organisation’s (IMO) efforts to achieve a globally harmonized decarbonized shipping industry, ensuring no country is left behind, particularly developing nations.
“We must prioritize sustainable and responsible maritime practices as Africa grows and develops,” Dr. Mobereola stressed. “This summit provides a unique opportunity to align our regional strategies with international frameworks while addressing Africa’s challenges and opportunities.”
Africa’s maritime sector is poised to leverage its strategic geographic advantage, renewable energy potential, and growing port infrastructure development to become a global leader in green shipping. The summit aimed to solidify Africa’s position in advocating for fair revenue distribution from global decarbonization measures and strengthening technical capacity for effective climate action.
International experts, including IMO-MEPC Chairperson Dr. Harry Conway, attended the summit to foster collaboration and continental cohesion in addressing climate change challenges in the maritime sector.
