Nigeria’s Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has called on African maritime stakeholders to harness the continent’s renewable energy potential to become a global leader in green shipping.
Speaking at the maiden Africa Strategic Summit on Shipping Decarbonization in Abuja, Oyetola emphasized the need for Africa to assert its presence and safeguard its interests as the International Maritime Organization (IMO) advances efforts to adopt the Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emissions Reduction Strategy.
Oyetola noted that reducing GHG emissions from shipping is both an environmental necessity and an economic imperative, as over 90% of global trade is facilitated by maritime transport.
He stressed that Africa must ensure its voice is heard and its interests safeguarded in shaping policies that impact the continent’s economies and livelihoods.
Dr. Dayo Mobereola, Director General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), echoed Oyetola’s sentiments, emphasizing the need for sustainable and responsible maritime practices in line with international frameworks as Africa develops.
The summit focused on Africa’s cooperation regarding the IMO’s GHG strategy and the basket of mid-term measures, ensuring a just and equitable transition for the continent and enhancing its technical capacity for climate action.
Key presentations highlighted the benefits of decarbonization, including reduced global warming, job creation, and improved air quality.
In related news, Nigeria has announced its intention to bid for Category-C in the forthcoming IMO Council election, with Oyetola soliciting support for Nigeria’s candidacy and pledging the country’s commitment to deliver on its mandate to the benefit of Africa if elected.
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